A 31-year-old Las Vegas woman has been accused of orchestrating an extensive financial scheme that authorities say left a 79-year-old senior citizen facing the loss of her life savings and nearly her home. Prosecutors allege the suspect gained the elderly woman’s trust by presenting herself as a helpful professional, then systematically drained bank accounts and attempted to sell the victim’s house without her knowledge.
Las Vegas police arrested Diana Mendez, 31, following a nine-month investigation into what authorities describe as the financial exploitation of Selina Milroy-Hayes, a 79-year-old homeowner. Investigators say Mendez stole more than $230,000 through repeated unauthorized electronic transfers and used power-of-attorney documents to try to sell the victim’s home.
Mendez now faces multiple felony charges, including two counts of theft of $100,000 or more, attempted theft, and two counts of exploiting an older or vulnerable person.
How the Relationship Began
According to police, Milroy-Hayes met Mendez after receiving a postcard offering assistance with refinancing her home. Authorities say the senior believed Mendez was an attorney and capable of helping her manage complex financial matters.
Over time, the two developed what Milroy-Hayes believed was a friendship. Investigators say Mendez began assisting the senior with banking and bill payments, particularly because Milroy-Hayes struggled with mobile banking applications.
Early Warning Signs
Police reports state that the first signs of trouble emerged when Milroy-Hayes stopped receiving bank statements and noticed her mailbox key was missing. Concerned, she reviewed her accounts and reported suspicious activity to authorities.
Investigators later determined that hundreds of electronic transfers had been sent from Milroy-Hayes’ accounts to Mendez over an 18-month period.
Alleged Financial Transfers
According to police, Mendez allegedly transferred money to herself 264 times using the Zelle payment platform between February 2024 and July 2025. Bank records show investigators believe she received approximately $131,000 in 2024 and another $102,000 in 2025.
Authorities say all of the transfers were unauthorized.
The investigation also revealed that Milroy-Hayes had recently received more than $202,000 from the Nevada State Controller’s Office after successfully reclaiming unclaimed property linked to family-owned real estate. Police allege that shortly after the funds were deposited, large transfers began moving out of the account and into accounts associated with Mendez.
Attempted Home Sale
Investigators discovered that Milroy-Hayes’ Las Vegas home had been placed under contract for sale to a real estate investor for $295,000. Milroy-Hayes told police she had no knowledge of the transaction.
According to authorities, a notary reported that Mendez presented power-of-attorney documents and signed paperwork related to the sale as the elderly woman’s attorney in fact. The investor later told investigators that Mendez represented the transaction as being in the homeowner’s best interest.
The sale was halted after detectives and civil attorney Jared Jennings contacted the investor. Milroy-Hayes ultimately retained possession of her home.
Power of Attorney Dispute
Investigators reviewed documents granting Mendez power of attorney over Milroy-Hayes. Jennings said the senior signed the paperwork believing it was necessary for Mendez to assist with financial matters.
Police allege the authority was later used to facilitate financial transfers and the attempted home sale without the victim’s consent.
Suspect’s Explanation
When detectives first contacted Mendez in August 2025, police say she claimed she had power of attorney because Milroy-Hayes was experiencing early-stage dementia and needed help with daily tasks.
According to the arrest report, Mendez said the money transfers were compensation for caregiving services and that she was entitled to $5,000 per month. Police noted she admitted she was not a licensed caregiver.
Investigators challenged her explanation after reviewing bank records that showed amounts far exceeding that figure. Police say Mendez then claimed the additional money was payment for extra services.
Legal Proceedings
Mendez was arrested on May 14 and later released on a $165,000 surety bond. Court records show she has denied wrongdoing during police interviews and has retained legal counsel.
She is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on July 6. The investigation remains ongoing.
Case Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident type | Alleged financial exploitation |
| Victim | 79-year-old senior citizen |
| Suspect | Diana Mendez, 31 |
| Amount alleged | More than $230,000 |
| Home sale attempt | $295,000 |
| Key method | Electronic transfers and power of attorney |
| Case status | Pending court proceedings |
Authorities say the case underscores how financial exploitation of seniors can unfold gradually, often under the appearance of help or companionship. Investigators continue reviewing evidence as the legal process moves forward.
FAQs
Who is accused in the case?
Las Vegas resident Diana Mendez, 31.
How much money was allegedly stolen?
Police say more than $230,000.
Was the victim’s home sold?
No, the sale was stopped by investigators.
How were the funds transferred?
Through repeated Zelle electronic payments.
When is the court hearing?
A preliminary hearing is set for July 6.
