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PSW busted for jewelry theft; police looking for more victims

Police say a suspect pawned 'numerous pieces of jewelry' in recent weeks, and are encouraging other clients to check their belongings for missing items
ThoroldToday Staff

Niagara Regional Police have arrested a personal supporter worker who allegedly stole pieces of jewelry from a client.

Police say the suspect pawned other pieces of jewelry in recent weeks, and are encouraging clients to check their belongings for missing items. 

Melody Varley, 71, of Welland was arrested Tuesday. 

Below is the full press release from police:

NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA REGIONAL POLICE SERVICE
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On July 11, 2022, Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) detectives assigned to 3 District (Welland/Pelham) commenced a stolen property investigation stemming from the residence of a senior citizen who resides in the City of Welland.

Investigation has revealed the suspect, a Personal Support Worker (PSW), utilized her position to gain lawful entry into a client’s home. After jewelry belonging to the client was discovered stolen, a criminal investigation was commenced.

Detectives have successfully recovered the stolen jewelry in a local pawnshop and with assistance from the owner who provided closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, the suspect was identified and confirmed to be the PSW responsible for the client’s care.

Melody Varley (71 years) of Welland was arrested on July 19, 2022, and is being charged with the following Criminal Code offences:

  • Traffic in property obtained by crime not exceeding $5,000
  • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000

As a result of the investigation, it has been determined that Varley has pawned numerous pieces of jewelry over the past several weeks. Members of the public who Varley may have cared for are encouraged to inspect their personal belongings and review the attached images for identification purposes.

Varley was released from custody on a Form 10 Undertaking and is scheduled to attend court on October 7th, 2022, at 102 East Main Street, in the City of Welland.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the officer-in-charge at 905-688-4111, option #3, extension #1009702.

Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.  Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.

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