South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Salym M. Williams, 32, from Columbia, S.C., for multiple charges related to exploiting a vulnerable adult. The charges include Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult, Obtaining Signature or Property under False Pretenses valued at $10,000 or more, and Financial Identity Fraud. Williams was detained at the Lexington County Detention Center on July 15, 2025.
The investigation by the Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud unit (VAMPF) revealed that between April 25, 2022, and November 12, 2024, Williams allegedly misappropriated funds from a vulnerable adult. It is alleged that Williams used the victim’s personal information to open a Cash App account in their name for retail purchases and money transfers. Additionally, it is claimed that Williams accessed the victim’s retirement accounts and bank account for electronic transfers and ATM withdrawals. The total amount defrauded is said to be $28,412.47. The victim was residing at Opus Post Acute in West Columbia during this period.
Opus Post Acute referred the case to VAMPF and cooperated with investigators. The Attorney General’s Office will prosecute this case.
Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult carries penalties of up to five years in prison or a fine up to $5,000 upon conviction. Obtaining Signature or Property under False Pretenses can lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $500. Financial Identity Fraud may result in up to 10 years imprisonment with fines determined by the court.
VAMPF has authority over Medicaid provider fraud as well as abuse and exploitation cases involving assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
Attorney General Wilson emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The South Carolina Medicaid Fraud Control Unit receives significant funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for federal fiscal year 2025.
