Great Lakes Wire

Cheryl Colburn, 65, of Ithaca, has been bound over to stand trial in the 8th Circuit Court in Montcalm County on one count of embezzlement from a vulnerable adult, $1,000 - $20,000, a 5-year felony. The announcement was made by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Colburn, who served as the professional guardian and conservator of the victim, was charged in July for allegedly keeping the victim’s property for her own benefit.

Colburn was the adult victim’s guardian and conservator from 2021 until the victim’s death in April 2023. During this period, it is alleged that Colburn took items belonging to the victim, including a utility trailer, an Arctic Cat ATV, and a moped, to her personal residence. These items were reportedly never accounted for in filings with the probate court.

“Guardians and conservators are entrusted with a responsibility to protect and advocate for vulnerable adults in their care,” Nessel said. “Unfortunately, some abuse this position of trust. To prevent such exploitation, it is imperative that closer oversight be placed on guardians and conservators. That is why the Elder Abuse Task Force has advocated for legislation to better safeguard our seniors.”

Michigan's Elder Abuse Task Force launched in 2019 and consists of more than 55 different organizations across public, private, and nonprofit sectors working together to combat elder abuse. The Task Force includes over 100 individuals divided into seven committees focused on nine initiatives such as requiring certification and training for professional guardians.

Earlier this year, the Department testified in support of House Bills 4909-4912 aimed at reforming Michigan’s guardianship statutes. The Department also supports Senate Bill 656 which would restrict investments a conservator can make with estate property. Additionally, Attorney General Nessel and the Task Force have advocated for legislation to establish family consent laws and PPOs for elder/vulnerable adults along with a guardian certification initiative.

More than 100,000 older adults in Michigan experience abuse, neglect, or exploitation each year. Residents seeking elder abuse resources are encouraged to call 800-24-ABUSE (22873) or 855-444-3911 to report suspected elder abuse.

Colburn will next appear before Judge Suzanne Hoseth Kreeger in the 8th Circuit Court on September 19 at 8 a.m.

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