Woman accused of defrauding grandmother

GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. (WIVB) - A Grand Island woman allegedly used her grandmother’s personal information to run up approximately $25,000 in charges.

When the East River Road grandmother contacted the sheriff’s office, she said her granddaughter opened two credit cards using her name and personal information without her permission. "Rosemary" claimed her granddaughter used the cards to run up approximately $25,000 in bills.

"This is something I just couldn't let go. It was just way out of control and there was no way I could afford to pay those charges for her. She's my granddaughter and I love her and I took her in, and this is what happens. I still love her, but right now I can't forgive her," Rosemary said.

The sheriff’s office questioned 20-year-old Kali Zelakiewicz, and they say she admitted to opening the cards in her grandmother’s name. According to the sheriff’s office, Zelakiewicz says she used the cards to pay off some of her bills and make purchases, including a $6,500 down payment on a car. Zelakiewicz admitted to taking her grandmother’s name off her car insurance and putting the car in her name.

Rosemary said, "I hope she learns her lesson; I don't want to see her go to jail. But I do want to see her accept responsibility for what she's done and hopefully we can mend our relationship."

Zelakiewicz was arrested and charged with felony first-degree identity theft and felony fourth-degree grand larceny. She is expected in court on October 31st.