DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. — Broward Sheriff’s Office detectives are searching for a 26-year-old woman previously arrested on accusations that she posed as a caregiver to exploit elderly victims after investigators said they identified at least two new cases involving similar tactics.
According to BSO, Jamisha Shamari Sylvain is accused of falsely identifying herself as a caregiver to gain access to elderly victims and steal their money and financial information.
The investigation into Sylvain began in October 2025, when detectives received a report that an elderly man was being exploited by an unknown woman at the B’nai B’rith apartments in Deerfield Beach.
Detectives said the woman posed as a caregiver and convinced the man to allow her into his apartment.
Once inside, Sylvain allegedly gained access to the victim’s bank card and made multiple withdrawals totaling $1,600, according to BSO.
Investigators identified Sylvain as the suspect and subsequently learned of several similar incidents.
According to detectives, Sylvain allegedly pretended to be a professional caregiver and convinced vulnerable victims she was authorized to enter their apartments. In some cases, investigators said she claimed to be a new caregiver assigned by the victim’s health insurance company.
Once inside, Sylvain allegedly stole debit cards and told victims she needed their personal banking information.
Arrested in 2025, released in May
A coordinated investigation involving BSO and several Deerfield Beach units led authorities to obtain an arrest warrant for Sylvain.
She was located and booked into the BSO Main Jail on Dec. 19, 2025.
According to BSO, the charges against her included occupied burglary, elderly exploitation, criminal use of personal identification information, theft of a credit card and grand theft involving a victim 65 or older.
Sylvain was released from jail in May 2026.
Since her release, Deerfield Beach detectives have identified at least two new cases in which they said Sylvain used a similar ruse to gain the trust of elderly victims.
In one of the new cases, investigators said Sylvain targeted a victim at The Pointe at Deerfield Beach Senior Living.
This time, BSO said she allegedly pretended to be the building manager before stealing a debit card, credit cards and cash.
Detectives are now asking for the public’s help finding Sylvain while warning residents about the tactics she is accused of using.
BSO offers tips to protect elderly residents
BSO is urging residents to verify the identity, credentials and references of caregivers and aides before allowing them into a home or giving them access to finances.
Authorities also recommend regularly reviewing bank statements and credit reports for unfamiliar activity and involving a trusted friend or family member before providing financial information if a request or situation appears suspicious.
BSO also encourages victims to report suspicious activity as quickly as possible, saying early reporting may help prevent further losses.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone living in BSO’s jurisdiction who believes they or someone they know may have been the victim of a similar scam is asked to call BSO’s non-emergency number at 954-764-HELP (4357).
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