A 34-year-old former home caregiver is behind bars tonight, accused of draining thousands of dollars from a client’s bank account. Cassandra Cook was arrested Wednesday and faces felony charges of stealing over $750 and fraudulent use of a credit or debit device.
According to a probable cause statement, the investigation began earlier this month when a Columbia resident reported a large sum of money missing from his bank account. Detectives say bank records revealed a spending spree totaling more than $4,230.
The unauthorized charges reportedly spanned multiple online platforms and local retailers, including:
Over $1,800 spent on DoorDash food orders, Purchases from Victoria’s Secret, TikTok Shop, and Walmart. plus transactions at a towing company, a jail ATM, and various other cash withdrawals.
Cook had been hired in late November 2025 to provide 15 hours of care per week. However, the company that hired her told police that after Cook abruptly quit, it took two days to clean the victim’s apartment, suggesting she had largely neglected her duties while on the clock.
Cook is currently being held at the Boone County Jail on a $4,500 bond. Her initial court appearance is set for later this month.