Volusia Co. woman accused of duping, stealing from victims, deputies say

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A Volusia County woman has been arrested and faces 44 felony charges for scamming victims, Volusia County deputies said.

Sonia Gautier, 60, was arrested Wednesday and faced additional charges Thursday for her role in four thefts in Volusia County and victimizing at least two other victims in Orange City. Investigators said they worry there are more victims.

"She's a scumbag. Short and sweet," said Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood.

The thefts began in September when Gautier would steal wallets, credit cards and other personal information from people as young as 50 years old to as 93 years old, deputies said. She would pretend to be a health care worker, checking on insurance, or go to garage sales and pretend to buy furniture as a way to get into people’s homes, deputies said.

"That was Christmas money that we had saved out of our grocery money for 6 months," said Darlyn Wummer.

Wummer said Gautier stole more than $500 from her.

“Based on the statements made and evidence on scene, Detective McGuire determined that Gautier intentionally and knowingly surreptitiously and systematically located elderly individuals with the intent of stealing their credit cards.”

Deputies said Gautier would use put the money on pre-paid cards and make small purchases on the stolen bank cards, deputies said.

"I was mad at myself for not being more careful," Wummer said.

Gautier is in the Volusia County jail on a $335,000 bond.

Cox Media Group