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Investing in the Future: Protecting the Elderly From Financial Abuse

NCJ Number
170781
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 66 Issue: 12 Dated: (December 1997) Pages: 1-5
Author(s)
J Coker; B Little
Date Published
1997
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The data revealing that elderly persons experience a substantial amount of financial abuse indicate the need for police officers to understand the nature of this kind of abuse and to take actions to give seniors the security they deserve.
Abstract
Financial abuse has varying definitions. Some definitions include the use of illegal means to take advantage of a person's partial or complete incompetence, illegal use of an elder's resources or property, misuse or theft of money and property, use of funds without permission, the persuasion of the elder to relinquish control of resources, or the distribution of resources without consent. The perpetrators are often the legally appointed conservators or guardians. Clues to financial elder abuse include unusual activity in a bank account, statements by new acquaintances of the elder that they would like to live with the elder, loss of utilities or other amenities that the elder can afford, new signees or unusual activity on credit cards, and suspicious signatures on documents. The problem of elder abuse needs serious attention by law enforcement, although it can be difficult to detect and prosecute. One well-known strategy is the Triad program, a collaborative effort of the county sheriff, local police agencies, and senior citizen groups. In addition to this and other efforts, police need more training in the recognition and apprehension of those who abuse elders. Investigative coalitions and the sharing of information among social service, law enforcement, and financial institutions are also useful approaches. Other strategies include law reforms, education of the elderly to recognize financial victimization, and programs for offenders. Photographs and reference notes