A caregiver at a Shelby County nursing home is accused of stealing more than $16,000 from a resident.

Louise Smith Bradley, 63, is charged with financial exploitation of the elderly, Alabaster police announced Wednesday.

The investigation began when the victim’s family reported some discrepancies in financial records and some concerns about staff at Healthcare Center at Buck Creek where Bradley was employed at the time.

Charging documents against Bradley state $16,705.35 was stolen from the 75-year-old woman.

“No matter your situation or financial needs, it’s pretty despicable to steal from those who depend on you for their health and well-being,’’ said Alabaster Police Chief Curtis Rigney.

Efforts to reach officials at the nursing home for comment were not immediately successful. The status of Bradley’s employment is unknown.

Bradley was booked into the Shelby County Jail Friday and has since been released after posting $30,000 bond.

The charge is a Class B felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prion and up to $30,000 in fines.

Bradley has a court date set for May.