Blairsville, GA – In March 2017, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Union County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into allegations of elder exploitation in Blairsville, Georgia with the assistance of Georgia Adult Protective Services.  During the investigation, it was determined that Belvalene Torbush, 75, of Blairsville and her son Stacy Waldrip, 48, of Blairsville stole more than $150,000 from Fain Griffith, 85, of Blairsville, Georgia through deceptive means. 

On Wednesday, April 5, 2017, both Torbush and Waldrip were arrested at their home in Blairsville and transported to the Union County Jail.  Torbush was charged with four counts of exploitation of an elder and four counts of theft by deception.  Waldrip was charged with two counts of exploitation of an elder and two counts of theft by deception.    

The investigation continues and upon completion will be provided to the Enotah Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office. 

Nelly Miles - Public Affairs Director | GBI - Decatur | 404/270-8330