Utah Family Displaced After Guardianship Company Sells Homes to cover Debts
ST. GEORGE, Utah – A Utah family is reeling after a guardianship company, Owl Guardianship and Elder Care Services, LLC, sold multiple properties-including homes occupied by family members-to settle debts accrued by 79-year-old Dale Myers. The case raises questions about the balance between protecting vulnerable adults and respecting the wishes of family members, even when a legal guardian is appointed.
Myers, who family members say has never been diagnosed with dementia or cognitive impairment, expressed opposition to the sales. ”No, no,” he stated when asked if he wanted the evictions to occur. He recounted being told his bill was so substantial, his homes had to be sold. Eight people, including Myers’ son, rhodes, are now displaced consequently of the evictions. Rhodes is currently living in a camper on his father’s property.
The situation unfolded under a court-appointed guardianship. Utah law, specifically the guardianship bill of rights, stipulates that individuals under guardianship have the right to participate in managing thier assets and property. While the guardian ultimately holds decision-making power, the law emphasizes collaboration with the individual.
“Ultimately the guardian gets to make that decision,” explained attorney Crippes of the Disability Law Center, who is not involved in the case, “but you should work with the individual.”
Myers acknowledged the guardianship has been “pretty well” for him personally, but lamented the impact on his family. “I mean, if I ever were to get good, (I) don’t even have a place to go live,” he said.
Owl Guardianship, a family-owned business operating in Utah since 2013, defends its actions. In a statement, the company said it intervenes on behalf of disabled adults in distress and prioritizes their “care and safety.” The statement continued, ”Sometimes that priority conflicts with desires of friends and family members who may wish to access to property, funds, or other resources of the vulnerable adult. Any legal processes that arise from this conflict are handled through the proper venue, which is the court.”
5th District Judge Jay Winward previously commended the company’s work, stating in a court hearing, “There’s some companies up north that are not… ethical as you are, and (I) appreciate your work.”
Family members, like daughter Jackman, are outraged. ”I’m furious. I’m really upset,” she said.
Owl Guardianship declined an interview but provided the judge’s comments and its statement. Further details regarding the amount Myers still owes and who has received payments from the property sales will be reported Tuesday night on FOX 13 News.
