BUNNELL, Fla. — A 56-year-old Palm Coast man was arrested earlier this month after investigators say he forged multiple checks from his late mother’s estate, stealing thousands of dollars in unauthorized transactions.
Thomas Frazzetto was taken into custody on June 18 by deputies from the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Unit and the Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit. He is charged with grand theft and uttering forged instruments, according to authorities.
Detectives began investigating Frazzetto on December 2, 2024, just two months after his mother’s death. The probe was launched after a report of someone attempting to cash a forged $51,200 check. Investigators determined Frazzetto had forged his mother’s signature on that check and three others, which he successfully cashed shortly after her passing.
In total, the unauthorized transactions amounted to more than $9,000, including a $2,000 Zelle payment made the day before her death. A representative of the estate told authorities Frazzetto’s mother would have been medically incapacitated at the time of the digital transfer.
Police said the man was, “Son of the year.”
Detectives link suspect to prior financial activity before mother’s death
Authorities said the financial activity raised multiple red flags, with fraud occurring both before and after the woman’s death. The forged checks and digital transfers were tied directly to accounts held by the deceased.
Frazzetto was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility, where he is being held on a $10,000 bond. The sheriff’s office noted Frazzetto’s prior criminal history, which includes drug offenses, simple battery, and probation violations.
“Stealing from a deceased family member is not only disgraceful, but it’s also criminal,” said Sheriff Rick Staly in a statement praising the investigators’ work in bringing charges.
Frazzetto faces multiple felony charges and remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
Detectives say Frazzetto exploited his mother’s estate within days of her death for personal financial gain.