Former Hillsboro Director Pleaded Guilty to Fraud

A former Missouri Mentor program director was sentenced to probation after stealing thousands from a client.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Financial Crime

Former Hillsboro Director Pleaded Guilty to Fraud

Laura E. Volkart pleaded guilty to the felony financial exploitation of a disabled person in Hillsboro. On September 16, 2026, a judge sentenced her to five years of probation and ordered $17,000 in restitution.

Why it matters

The case highlights the misuse of funds intended for vulnerable individuals receiving care through professional services. The investigation revealed that money meant for medical services and personal items was instead redirected to personal expenses.

Laura Volkart pleaded guilty to felony financial exploitation and received five years of probation. The case was processed through the Jefferson County judicial system following an investigation by the Missouri Attorney General's Office.

The players

Laura E. Volkart

The former program director for Missouri Mentor in Hillsboro was convicted of financial exploitation.

Travis Partney

The judge oversaw the legal proceedings and issued the sentence of probation and restitution.

Missouri Attorney General's Office

This government agency utilized its Medicaid Fraud Control Unit to investigate the financial crime.

The details

Between January 1, 2022, and September 31, 2023, Volkart transferred client funds into her personal checking account to cover unauthorized costs. Expenditures included $7,798.66 on DoorDash and $11,727.22 on payday loan payments.

Jan. 1, 2022 - Sept. 31, 2023: Volkart allegedly stole funds from the client.
Oct. 2023: Volkart was fired from Missouri Mentor.
Nov. 6, 2023: Inspector found no items purchased for client.
Sept. 16, 2026: Judge sentenced Volkart to probation and restitution.

Legal Context

This case follows established protocols under Missouri's felony financial exploitation of a disabled person statute. Prosecution in such cases typically focuses on restoring assets to victims while managing the probationary requirements for first-time offenders.

The case emphasizes the importance of verifying that caregivers or service providers are utilizing allocated funds for their intended medical purposes. Local residents should monitor account statements for clients under professional care to ensure funds are not being redirected.

The takeaway

Maintaining oversight of financial accounts managed by professional programs can prevent the misappropriation of personal funds. Victims and their families are encouraged to report irregular activity to the appropriate state fraud control units immediately.