Caldwell, a convicted sex offender who had moved in with Pugliese, became her primary caregiver. He had power of attorney, controlled her finances, and was named in her will. He stole a large amount of money from her and essentially ran her out of her own home. He lied repeatedly to police about her whereabouts.

Pugliese’s daughter, Cathie, suspected Caldwell was abusing her mother and had a falling out with him. She was even briefly charged with assaulting her mother (a charge later dropped). After Pugliese disappeared, her home was emptied of her belongings, except for a few items.

Caldwell was eventually arrested and charged with multiple crimes, including theft, forgery, and elder abuse. He made statements suggesting he knew what happened to Pugliese, and even allegedly confessed to killing her to witnesses. Although he never admitted guilt directly, he pleaded “no contest” to several serious charges and was sentenced to 13 years in prison. Despite the investigation and conviction, Pugliese’s body has never been found. Her disappearance is considered suspicious, and foul play is suspected.