A Palmetto woman who worked as a Veterans Affairs coordinator for the Public Defender’s Office in Florida’s 12th Judicial Circuit is facing multiple felony charges after Sarasota Police accused her of stealing nearly $65,000 from a veteran who trusted her with access to her finances while she was incarcerated.
Jessica McVay, 48, was arrested Sept. 23 in Manatee County and faces charges that include grand theft, fraud and criminal use of personal identification.
According to the Sarasota Police Department, the investigation began after the alleged victim reported approximately $65,000 in fraudulent charges, withdrawals and payments involving her bank accounts. The report was made Aug. 18, and investigators said the transactions occurred between November 2025 and July 2026.
Police said the woman met McVay through McVay’s work as a Veterans Affairs coordinator with the Public Defender’s Office. The alleged victim, who is a veteran, told investigators that McVay was the only person who had access to her credit cards while she was in jail.
Investigators obtained financial records through subpoenas and allege McVay used the woman’s bank account and personal information for her own expenses. Sarasota Police said the investigation found that McVay used the victim’s funds to pay a personal credit card and allegedly opened additional credit cards and bank accounts using the victim’s information while the woman was incarcerated.
The Sarasota Police Department said investigators are concerned there could be additional victims, particularly people who may have had contact with McVay through her professional role.
McVay is accused of the crimes, and the charges against her are allegations. She is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Police are asking anyone who worked with McVay or believes they may have been victimized to contact investigators.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation can contact Sarasota Police Detective Ridge Collins at 941-263-6073.
