A 59-year-old Rumford woman is accused of elder abuse and financially exploiting a family member.

Sharon Gardner was the primary caretaker for a family member when police say she diverted more than $1,000 to herself and used the victim’s debit card multiple times without permission, including while the family member was hospitalized.

Gardner is also accused of restricting the family member’s access to outside contact, including limiting cell phone use and communication with others.

Her charges include Theft by Unauthorized Taking or Transfer (Class C felony), Misuse of Identification (Class D misdemeanor), and Endangering the Welfare of a Dependent Person (Class C felony).

She was taken to the Oxford County Jail and has since been released. She has been ordered to have no contact with the victim.

Police say the investigation remains active, and additional charges against Gardner, and potentially other co-conspirators are possible as police continue to uncover further evidence of exploitation and theft.