Two charges have been filed in a Montecito woman’s financial theft case

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Two defendants have been identified in a financial crimes case involving a deceased elderly Montecito woman.

Santa Barbara Superior court records show the crimes allegedly occurred more than five years ago.

Nancy Coglizer pleaded guilty to crimes including elder abuse and conspiracy.

She had power of attorney for Constance Fearing, and through her connection to Detective Agency owner Craig Case, funds were allegedly loaned to Case in the form of checks for almost $700,000 and never returned. They were signed for $5,000. and $10,000. According to testimony given at the preliminary hearing in this case, Coglizer did not benefit from this money.

The case faced civil charges related to financial transactions when he was arrested for multiple offenses. He has been in prison for over a year.

He was also charged with creating a false concealed carry permit. According to court testimony, the case was discovered when a gun was found in his car during a search and Case was asked to show his gun permit. The case alleges Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s signature forgery.

Coglizer agreed to testify against Case if a trial was imminent. There was no prior “agreement” in exchange for Coglizer taking the witness stand.

She will not be sentenced until these proceedings are concluded.

Everyone involved will return to court on November 12 to set future court dates for the case.

Case, who uses a wheelchair, was handcuffed and left the Santa Barbara County Jail, where he has been held since July 2023.