News Summary
Linda DaLomba, a 45-year-old woman with autism, was found alive in a parked SUV five days after being reported missing by her caregiver. The investigation revealed inconsistencies in the caregiver’s account, leading to her arrest for multiple offenses. Authorities are now focusing on how DaLomba ended up in the vehicle and the involvement of others as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Cranston, RI – A missing woman, Linda DaLomba, 45, who has autism, was found alive approximately five days after she was reported missing by her caregiver, Roberta Gerard. DaLomba was discovered in a parked Honda Pilot on Pond Street by a local mechanic, Savong Sam, who was attempting to jump-start the vehicle.
Gerard reported DaLomba missing on March 18, 2025, claiming she disappeared while using the bathroom at Burlington Coat Factory. However, a review of surveillance footage revealed that neither DaLomba nor Gerard ever entered the store. This inconsistency raised suspicions, prompting the Cranston Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit to become involved.
As the investigation unfolded, Gerard provided several conflicting statements regarding DaLomba’s whereabouts, ultimately resulting in her arrest for multiple offenses. She faces charges of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an adult with severe impairment, obstruction of an officer in the execution of duty, and filing a false report of a crime. Gerard is currently awaiting further legal proceedings.
The investigation took a critical turn when Cherie Hart, 40, surrendered to police on Thursday, having been wanted for various charges related to fraud. Among the charges against Hart include conspiracy, obtaining property worth more than $10,000 by false pretenses, and fraudulent use of food stamps. Hart was processed at the state police headquarters and taken to Third Division District Court for arraignment.
Another individual, Jarconna Mathis, 47, also faced legal issues related to fraud. Mathis was arrested shortly before 3:30 p.m. for resisting arrest at her residence on Narragansett Boulevard. She is also wanted on similar charges as Hart.
Linda DaLomba was taken to Rhode Island Hospital for evaluation once she was found and was reported to be in good health. Authorities are now focused on how DaLomba ended up in the back of the SUV and whether any individuals assisted her during her absence. The police chief noted that the initial investigation was hampered by Gerard’s inaccurate accounts, which wasted valuable time. Law enforcement had deployed extensive resources, including searches facilitated by the FBI and other local agencies.
Search efforts were complicated by the fact that the SUV in which DaLomba was found had tinted windows, making it difficult for searchers to see inside. As the investigation progresses, police continue to review footage and are optimistic that more information will emerge concerning the circumstances of DaLomba’s disappearance.
This case has drawn significant attention to the challenges faced by caregivers, especially those responsible for individuals with severe disabilities. The arrest of Roberta Gerard and the subsequent discoveries regarding DaLomba’s situation have raised important questions about accountability and the responsibilities of caregivers.
In summary, while Linda DaLomba was successfully located and is in good health, the ongoing investigations into the actions of her caregiver and the related fraudulent activities involving other individuals are a stark reminder of the complexities that can arise in such caregiving situations. As authorities continue to gather information, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in similar circumstances across the state and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- ABC6: Missing Autistic Woman Found
- Wikipedia: Disabilities In The United States
- Providence Journal: Missing Woman Found
- Google Search: Autistic caregiver responsibilities
- WPRI: Cranston Police Find Linda DaLomba Alive
- Google Scholar: Caregiver Neglect
- GoLocalProv: New Missing Cranston Woman Found
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police
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