An American woman has been accused of stealing more than $55,000 from an elderly woman.

Appearing in Magistrates’ Court this morning, Melissa Burton, from Sag Harbor in New York, was also charged with abusing a senior by financial exploitation.

Ms Burton was not required to enter a plea because the charges are indictable and must be heard in Supreme Court.

The 52-year-old faces four charges of stealing money belonging to Katherine Trimingham, who died last year, via bank transfer and one charge of stealing money via credit card charge.

A total of $56,284.14 was allegedly taken in varying amounts on dates between November 7 and December 7 last year.

The abuse of Ms Trimingham by financial exploitation is said to have happened between October 27 and November 30.

Ms Burton was granted $50,000 bail with a like surety and the matter was adjourned for mention until tomorrow morning.

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