Injured Soldier's Parents Charged With Stealing Son's Recovery Fund

Yes, that IS the header on a story sent to me, and my immediate reaction is predictable. You don't need any commentary from me on this one. Read on:

SARAH NETTER

June 10, 2010

A Wisconsin couple who have pleaded for help in caring for their son after he was severely injured while serving in Iraq have been charged with stealing more than $100,000 meant to finance his care and rehabilitation.

Lori and Michael Nault are accused of using at least $167,000 of their 23-year-old son's money to heavily gamble at casinos in three states and fund their own household expenses, a new truck and thousands of dollars in jewelry.

Army Specialist Shane Nault, who cannot speak and requires 24-hour care, suffered catastrophic brain injuries after an IED explosion in Iraq in May 2007. Just 23 years old, he is blind and suffered strokes.

According to court documents supporting felony theft charges for both Lori and Michael Nault, they tried to cover their tracks by listing their son's assets as $35,218 when there had actually been $254,191 deposited into nine bank accounts, many of them in Shane's name.

They face a fine of up to $25,000 and up to 10 years in prison if convicted...

There is much more to this story, and it is a must read here.

The article ends with this from Shane's mom:

"We actually have had people think that we have it so easy because we don't have to work anymore," Lori Nault continued. "I would love for them to live in our shoes for a day. I wouldn't wish this on anyone."...

I also would not wish the kind of injuries that this returning hero suffered on any of our troops. I am well aware that the whole family's life must have changed when their son returned so severely wounded, and no matter who you are, that has got to present special challenges to all. Also, none of us know any more of this story than what the msm - abcnews in this case - choose to share.

HOWEVER, what these parents have been accused of is beyond despicable. God knows, in this current Global War on Terror, we hear daily of severely wounded troops returning home to a new devastating 'normal.' We have all also heard of stories of parents who struggle daily with the government systems trying to get the help for their children that they have earned. We all *get* that.

BUT this - stealing from your own child? Wrong, wrong, WRONG! Shane deserves so much better.

[BratNote: Okay, I did say no commentary was needed from me. Apparently, I lied!]

H/T Janet