Police in Leganés, Madrid, arrested a woman accused of drugging an elderly woman in her care and stealing jewelry and cash from her home. The case came to light after the victim’s children noticed a sudden decline in their mother’s cognitive state and persistent drowsiness, then filed a complaint in July. The family had hired the caregiver three months earlier to help with household chores and personal care for two hours a day.
Medical tests reportedly detected benzodiazepines in the woman’s system. The investigation names Orfidal, whose active ingredient is lorazepam, and Trankimazin, which contains alprazolam. Valium contains diazepam. Benzodiazepines can cause sedation and impair cognition, effects that may be especially consequential for older adults. The test result alone does not establish when or how the drugs were administered. Investigators said the caregiver routinely offered the woman drinks when she arrived; afterward, the woman would become lethargic and need to lie down. On waking, she often found valuables or cash missing.
Investigators said the caregiver visited a gold-buying shop twice and sold two pairs of earrings for €580 in total: one sale brought €400 on April 21, and another brought €180 on June 18. A further €200 was allegedly taken from the victim’s wallet. The suspect also tried to enter the home outside her scheduled working hours, including after the family dismissed her amid its suspicions.
The woman was detained on July 9 on suspicion of theft and later brought before judicial authorities. The allegations do not establish criminal responsibility; that determination rests with the courts. A separate case in Castellón was reported in a related news story.
The Leganés case highlights the risks when an older person’s health changes suddenly and valuables go missing. Benzodiazepines are prescription medicines used for conditions such as anxiety and sleep disorders; they can cause sedation and cognitive impairment. A medical professional should guide any decision about their use. Suspected unprescribed administration calls for medical assessment and police investigation.
