KC Reporter

An Independence woman has been indicted following accusations of defrauding an elderly victim of over $1 million. Amanda Sargent, 35, was charged with five counts by a federal grand jury, as revealed in an indictment unsealed post-arrest. The charges claim Sargent deceitfully obtained money from an elderly individual she encountered through Facebook over almost two years.

The Platte County Sheriff's Office was alerted by the victim, who met Sargent in a Facebook group meant to connect people experiencing homelessness with support services in Kansas City. Sargent allegedly fabricated stories about needing funds for car repairs and other personal expenses. The elderly woman reportedly sent Sargent over $1 million from late 2021 to mid-2023, believing she was aiding a struggling family. Claims made by Sargent for needing financial help for issues including a kidney transplant were false, and she used the funds for personal use, according to the indictment.

The indictment notes, "The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt." The prosecution, led by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Hanson, underlines that a federal jury is responsible for determining Sargent's guilt or innocence.

If found guilty, Sargent could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine per count. The sentencing will be determined by the court based on guidelines and other statutory factors following a probation office investigation.

The investigation into these allegations was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Platte County Sheriff's Office.