St. Louis Man Pleads Not Guilty to Wire Fraud in $735,000 Theft from Retired Teacher

A St. Louis man appeared in federal court this week after prosecutors accused him of stealing more than $735,000 while acting as power of attorney for a retired school teacher.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said 40-year-old Micheal N. Jones pleaded not guilty Monday to eight counts of wire fraud. A federal grand jury indicted him on the charges last month.

Court papers show Jones became the victim’s power of attorney in March 2023. Prosecutors allege he quickly spent more than $12,000 from her checking account and used her credit card for purchases on OnlyFans.

The next month, in April 2023, the victim moved to an assisted living facility. Her home sold, and investigators say Jones used the proceeds to buy four properties in St. Louis.

Another $160,000 went to Jones’ bank account and Cash App, according to the indictment. He allegedly spent it on food, trips, a life coach and additional OnlyFans purchases.

Jones missed payments for the victim’s care. She received just one payment at one facility before eviction. She also ran up more than $50,000 in unpaid bills at another.

Each wire fraud count carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.