The Davises, a couple who had struggled financially, received a $4 million settlement in 2009 related to an attack that left them in difficult circumstances. LaDonna, in her 70s, was caring for her husband St. James, who required constant attention. As their friends passed away, the couple became isolated, vulnerable, and fell into financial troubles. They met Min Zaw Maw, an immigrant from Myanmar, who shared their love of cars and quickly became involved in their lives. Maw was facing financial difficulties and moved into the Davises’ property, where he began taking control of their finances.
Maw was accused of mismanaging the Davises’ finances, with large sums of money being withdrawn from their accounts and checks being written out to him and his wife. A report detailed financial abuses and questionable transactions, leading to concerns and investigations by authorities. The situation at the Davises’ homes became chaotic, with squatters, fights, and code violations. Adult Protective Services found LaDonna living in nightmarish conditions, surrounded by financial abuses and lacking the capacity to make decisions.
A legal battle ensued over control of LaDonna’s money and properties, with Maw attempting to become her conservator. Despite LaDonna’s objections, Maw persisted in his efforts to gain control. Concerns were raised about the hundreds of thousands of dollars withdrawn from her accounts and checks written out to Maw. Eventually, a conservator was appointed to manage LaDonna’s finances, and her properties were sold to provide her with a nest egg.
Maw claimed to have spent his own money on maintaining the Davises’ properties and denied accusations of financial abuse. A settlement was reached in 2022, granting Maw a payout of $175,000 in cash and ownership of vehicles purchased by LaDonna. The settlement aimed to avoid further litigation costs and secure LaDonna’s assets. Despite the settlement, concerns were raised about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, and the difficulties in prosecuting cases involving mentally compromised victims.
Elder abuse experts noted that cases often end in settlements due to the challenges of litigation and proving undue influence. Prosecutors are often hesitant to pursue charges in such cases, leaving perpetrators free to target new victims. The case involving the Davises and Maw highlighted the vulnerabilities of elderly individuals and the challenges in holding perpetrators accountable. The situation, characterized by financial abuse and manipulation, underscored the need for stronger protections for vulnerable individuals.
