Kenosha Woman Accused Of Stealing More Than $18,000 Through Fraudulent Loans Involving Elderly Victims, Buying Ticketmaster Tickets: Commissioner Kellum Slashes $50,000 Bail To Zero

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Candice L. DeFord, 41, of Kenosha
(Kenosha County Sheriff's Office)

KENOSHA, Wis. — A 41-year-old Kenosha woman accused of orchestrating an elaborate financial fraud scheme involving elderly customers, forged signatures, fraudulent loans, and more than $18,000 in losses was released on no-cash bail Monday afternoon. Candice L. DeFord, 41, of Kenosha, faces 15 felony charges, including money laundering, identity theft, forgery, and fraudulent use of financial transaction cards. DeFord was arrested on November 6, 2026, after Kenosha County Circuit Court Judge Jodi Meier issued a $50,000 arrest warrant two days earlier. Despite the seriousness of the allegations and the number of alleged victims, Kenosha County Court Commissioner Daniel "Catch & Release" Kellum slashed her bail to zero on Monday, November 9, allowing her release without requiring a single dollar in cash.

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Author

Kevin Mathewson

Kevin Mathewson is a disciple of Christ, husband and a father to two wonderful children. Mathewson was born and raised in Lake County, IL and worked as a police & fire dispatcher from 2005 to 2010 in Round Lake Beach, IL. Mathewson moved to Kenosha County in 2006, later being elected to the position of Alderman of the 8th District in 2012 and 2016. Mathewson is a private investigator, security contractor, journalist, and photographer. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, camping and boating. His favorite amendment is the second, followed closely by the first. He loves his country and community.

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