HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. — An Ohio Valley attorney and his wife appeared in magistrate court Thursday after being charged in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud an elderly veteran of more than $100,000.
Lawrence Manypenny and his wife, Constance Manypenny, each face four felony charges, including fraudulent schemes, conspiracy and two counts of financial exploitation of an elderly person.
The case is being overseen by Special Magistrate William “Mike” Lemon of Ohio County, while Brooke County Prosecuting Attorney Allison Cowden has been appointed as the special prosecutor.
During Thursday’s hearing, both defendants waived their right under West Virginia law to a preliminary hearing within 20 days of posting bond. The hearing will be rescheduled for a later date.
According to West Virginia Magistrate Court records, Lawrence and Constance Manypenny each posted a $20,000 bond and were released pending further court proceedings.
The charges stem from allegations that the couple defrauded an elderly veteran of more than $100,000. The case remains under investigation.
