She allegedly used her mom’s money for vacations, jewelry, car loan.

By PAT PHEIFER, Star Tribune

July 15, 2009

In a case that Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner called “a heartbreaking example of elder abuse,” a 42-year-old North St. Paul woman has been charged with stealing more than $220,000 from her mother over a two-year period.

Marsha A. Truskolaski is accused of abusing her power of attorney over her 75-year-old mother’s money to pay for vacations, private school tuition for her children and expensive home improvements including an in-ground swimming pool. She was charged Wednesday in Ramsey County District Court with one count of theft by swindle.

San Luis Obispo Man Arrested for Elder Abuse

July 13, 2009

Officers in San Luis Obispo have arrested 43 year old Ronald Perkins for elder abuse.

Officers say on Friday Perkins repeatedly kicked a 65 year old man in the head and the face at the Maxine Lewis Memorial Shelter.

Several bystanders were able to stop Perkins by in turn punching him the head.

Perkins who is on supervised parole with the California State Parole Department was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and elder abuse.

He has been booked into the San Luis Obispo county jail.

SOURCE: KCOY.COM

Break the silence campaign addresses hidden problem of elder abuse

July 15, 2009

Press release submitted by Lori L. Weber, Media Link, Inc.

Break the Silence Campaign Addresses Hidden Problem of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse, the mistreatment of an older person, takes many forms. Abuse can come in the form of physical and emotional abuse, financial exploitation or neglect. But whatever the form, elder abuse hurts – physically, emotionally and socially. The suffering that results can”t be erased, but continued suffering can be reduced with heightened awareness.

That”s why the Illinois Department on Aging designates the month of July to “Break the Silence” about elder abuse. Alternatives for the Older Adult and Protective Service providers across the state of Illinois join this effort to bring attention to the issue and the resources available for help.

(Press Release)

The Nursing Home Complaint Center Intends To Team Up With Personal Injury Law Firms To Stop Nursing Home Abuse & Medicare Fraud In Each State.

The Nursing Home Abuse Center wants to assist personal injury law firms go after nursing homes, for elder abuse, and wrongful death in every state, by teaming up with established personal injury law firms that have a passion about elder abuse issues, in their specific state. The Nursing Home Complaint Center also wants to work with law firm that also have an interest in Medicare-Medicaid fraud, Class actions, and employee wage and hour issues. According to the group, “We want to team up with larger personal injury law firms in specific cities, where we know nursing home abuse, Medicare or Medicaid fraud, and employee wage, and hour issues are wide spread, to stop these types of practices.” Personal Injury Law Firms, class action law firms, or employment law firms that might have an interest in this are welcome to call the group at 866-714-6466, or visit their web site at http://NursingHomeComplaintCenter.com.

The group says, “Our nursing home initiative is the real deal, that will dramatically change the landscape of elder abuse, wrongful death, possible class action issues, and wage and hour issues in our nations nursing homes. We want to work with one, or a maximum of two personal injury law firms in each state, or at least one in our nations top 100 metro areas.” The Nursing Home Complaint Center says, “Our initiative is ethical, and it will be a win-win for the patients, the victims, & the participating personal injury law firms.”

Brooke County Man Charged With Elder Abuse

July 20, 2009

A man who police said was involved in the abduction of a Brooke County woman has been charged after he showed up at the nursing home where she lives.

David Matthews was arrested over the weekend on a felony count of abuse and neglect of an elder and incapacitated person.

By NANCY FOSTER

New Hampshire Union Leader Correspondent

July 18, 2009

Police are investigating concerns about possible elder abuse at a local nursing home involving an 87-year-old man who died last Friday.

According to police Chief Frederick Douglas, detectives were called to the Southern New Hampshire Medical Center on June 28 to investigate concerns raised by staff at the hospital about the condition of the man’s wounds. Investigators will try to determine whether neglect contributed to the death, Douglas said.

The man, whom Douglas refused to identify for reasons of privacy, was a resident at The Elms, a nursing home on Elm Street run by SunBridge Healthcare Corp., based in Rochester, N.Y.

As economy worsens, swindling of elders increases

By Michelle Singletary

July 16, 2009

Fraud is bad enough, but when you have family members or caregivers who are financially abusing their elderly relatives or patients, that’s downright despicable.

And yet, in most of the cases of elder financial abuse, the perpetrators are not strangers. Family, friends, neighbors and caregivers are the culprits in 55 percent of the cases, according to a report, “Broken

Trust: Elders, Family, and Finances, “ released by the MetLife Mature Market Institute. The report was produced in conjunction with the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and Virginia Tech University.

Law enforcement and securities officials say the recession is pushing more people to steal from well-off seniors.

Nurses ignored me, says patient

An elderly Dundee woman, who has been battling a rare form of terminal cancer for four years, has hit out at the “lack of care” she received at Ninewells Hospital after her latest hip operation (writes Kirsten Johnson).

The 72-year-old former nurse, who asked not to be named, underwent surgery to replace a hip joint.

The pensioner’s health was already a cause for the concern before the operation and on the advice of her consultant she was sent to Ninewells —rather than her first choice, Stracathro Hospital — because of the levels of expertise and aftercare available.

However, the woman, who has leukaemia, claims the nursing staff “left her to her own devices” and that she was forced to clean her own wound for fear of infection.

Maggie Simpson, NHS Tayside director of nursing for the delivery unit, apologised for the situation. “We are sorry this patient has raised concerns about her care and I am more than happy to discuss any issues,” she said.

She added, “She can also contact the complaints and advice Team on 0800 027 5507.”

Making the choice

By Peggy Armstrong, Lindsay Post Reporter

July 21, 2009

Ever looked at your kids and wondered how well they would take care of you? What if you don’t have kids, who would you trust with your life?

Now is the time to find out.

Three documents will give other people control over your money, your personal care and, potentially, the circumstances of your death. They are the continuing power of attorney for property, power of attorney for personal care, and a do not resuscitate (DNR) order.

In a series of three articles, The Lindsay Post will examine each one and through expert advice help readers navigate potential pitfalls and red flags. This is the first in the series that will continue on Friday.

KAWARTHA LAKES – Imagine handing over every aspect of your finances and property to someone else and closing your eyes while they manage them.

That’s essentially what you have to do in choosing a power of attorney (POA).

The Substitution Decisions Act of 1992 codifies that a power of attorney must:

– exercise reasonable care

– not obtain secret profits

– be accountable

– not allow his personal interests to conflict with those of the donor

– not make, change or revoke the will of the donor

Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes 705-324-7323

Haliburton Kawartha Lakes Elder Abuse Prevention Network 705-324-7323

Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee 1-800-668-9938 or 416-326-5300

Coming up on Friday: The Power of Attorney for Personal Care

(A very worthwhile series to follow ………AC)

Abridged

SOURCE: Lindsay Daily Post

By Eve Glicksman

Staff Writer, myOptumHealth

Older adults may face a higher risk of getting treated improperly. They may be frail and unable to stand up for themselves. Some don’t think as clearly as they used to. Or they may depend on others to manage their bills.

All these things can open the door for people to take advantage of seniors. This could include physical abuse, emotional mistreatment, neglect or financial scams. Sometimes it is the result of a caregiver facing extra stress, but this is still not a reason to abuse you.

If you are a senior, don’t let yourself be a target. Protect yourself from being abused in these ways:

Discovery Bay caretaker arrested in death of elderly man

By Robert Salonga
Contra Costa Times

07/20/2009

A live-in caretaker was arrested after an elderly man was found dead in his home and his wife was hospitalized because of heat-related ailments, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office said.

Investigators suspect that the woman, who has been caring for the wife for less than a year, did not turn on the home’s air conditioning in 100-degree weather, said sheriff’s spokesman Jimmy Lee.

Sheriff’s deputies went to a home in the 1200 block of Discovery Bay Boulevard about 11:15 p.m. Saturday, where an elderly man was reported as not breathing. Firefighters and an ambulance were already there and George Brim, 90, was pronounced dead in an upstairs bedroom. His 85-year-old wife, Shirley Brim, was hospitalized with heat-related ailments.

While an investigation is in its early stages, Lee said it was apparent to investigators that the air conditioning in the home, which was to be monitored by the caretaker, had not been turned on in some time. The windows of the bedroom where the man was found dead were closed when emergency crews arrived.

Health and support listings

By Phyllis Day, Times Staff Writer
July 21, 2009

Elder Abuse Hotline: To report suspected cases of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation, or those 60 or older who are being hurt or taken advantage of by someone you know, call toll-free 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337) or 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873) . Sponsored by the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs.

Jul 14, 2009

Source: County

Suspect took over $50k for work that was never done

Santa Barbara County Detectives have arrested a man suspected of ripping off more than a dozen people who hired him to do landscaping work.

Gilbert Lee Martinez (DOB 3/22/69) is suspected of contacting potential tree trimming clients, quoting a price, taking money up front and then leaving without ever performing any work. Over the past few months the SBSO received several complaints from victims, many who are elderly, who have paid as much as $2,000 for work that was never done.

On Thursday, July 9, 2009 authorities in Arcadia, CA detained Martinez for trying to cash a forged check. They discovered a warrant for Martinez in Santa Barbara County. SBSO Detectives immediately traveled to Arcadia where they took Martinez into custody and brought him to the Santa Barbara County Jail.

SBSO Detectives have linked Martinez to at least fourteen cases in Santa Barbara County alone. He’s believed to have stolen at least $50,000. No money was recovered during his arrest.

He faces charges of Fraud, Grand Theft, and Fiduciary Elder Abuse. He’s currently in the Santa Barbara County Jail on $50,000 bail. However, he will remain in jail on a no bail warrant in San Luis Obispo County. His arraignment is scheduled for Friday, July 17, 2009 in North Santa Barbara County.

If you or someone you know was a victim of Martinez and have not reported it, you are encouraged to contact SBSO Detective Charles Cooley at 805-934-6176.

95-year-old woman had face covered with a shower cap in nursing home sick joke

By Suzannah Hills

19/07/2009

A frail 95-year-old woman had her face covered with a shower cap as a sick joke in a nursing home.

A carer-turned-whistleblower also reveals today how others were victims of humiliation and abuse in the £500-a-week home.

Kevan Ralphs, 42, has given up his 18 year service as a carer to expose their suffering at St Quentin Nursing Home in Staffordshire – where he claims that the residents were treated like cattle.

And he reveals how he repeatedly told superiors about his concerns – but was ignored.

Tributes to Bracken Bank attack victim

14th July 2009

By Lisa Campbell

Tributes have been paid to an elderly woman who died following a serious assault in Bracken Bank.

Minnie Keat, 86, died in Airedale Hospital on Sunday following an attack the previous Monday.

Her son Barry Keat, 58, from Keighley, has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Mrs Keat was described as a frail but “lovely” person who would do “anything for anybody”.

Mr Keat appeared before Bradford magistrates last Wednesday and was remanded in custody.

He is due to appear before Bradford Crown Court this Thursday via a video link from prison.

Jul 14, 2009

Source: County

Suspect took over $50k for work that was never done

Santa Barbara County Detectives have arrested a man suspected of ripping off more than a dozen people who hired him to do landscaping work.

Gilbert Lee Martinez (DOB 3/22/69) is suspected of contacting potential tree trimming clients, quoting a price, taking money up front and then leaving without ever performing any work. Over the past few months the SBSO received several complaints from victims, many who are elderly, who have paid as much as $2,000 for work that was never done.

On Thursday, July 9, 2009 authorities in Arcadia, CA detained Martinez for trying to cash a forged check. They discovered a warrant for Martinez in Santa Barbara County. SBSO Detectives immediately traveled to Arcadia where they took Martinez into custody and brought him to the Santa Barbara County Jail.

SBSO Detectives have linked Martinez to at least fourteen cases in Santa Barbara County alone. He’s believed to have stolen at least $50,000. No money was recovered during his arrest.

He faces charges of Fraud, Grand Theft, and Fiduciary Elder Abuse. He’s currently in the Santa Barbara County Jail on $50,000 bail. However, he will remain in jail on a no bail warrant in San Luis Obispo County. His arraignment is scheduled for Friday, July 17, 2009 in North Santa Barbara County.

If you or someone you know was a victim of Martinez and have not reported it, you are encouraged to contact SBSO Detective Charles Cooley at 805-934-6176.

Break the silence campaign addresses hidden problem of elder abuse

July 15, 2009

Press release submitted by Lori L. Weber, Media Link, Inc.

Break the Silence Campaign Addresses Hidden Problem of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse, the mistreatment of an older person, takes many forms. Abuse can come in the form of physical and emotional abuse, financial exploitation or neglect. But whatever the form, elder abuse hurts – physically, emotionally and socially. The suffering that results can”t be erased, but continued suffering can be reduced with heightened awareness.

That”s why the Illinois Department on Aging designates the month of July to “Break the Silence” about elder abuse. Alternatives for the Older Adult and Protective Service providers across the state of Illinois join this effort to bring attention to the issue and the resources available for help.

Brooke County Man Charged With Elder Abuse

July 20, 2009

A man who police said was involved in the abduction of a Brooke County woman has been charged after he showed up at the nursing home where she lives.

David Matthews was arrested over the weekend on a felony count of abuse and neglect of an elder and incapacitated person.

How to detect nursing home abuse

07/17/2009

By Dan Churney

Former Jackson County attorney will serve at least six years in prison for embezzlement

by Danielle Quisenberry | Jackson Citizen Patriot

July 17, 2009

Former Jackson County lawyer Richard McQuillan said he considers it a “lifelong obligation” to pay back the heirs of an estate he said he plundered to help people in the Dominican Republic.

“It is my sincere desire to get out, to work and earn this,” said McQuillan, 55, who earlier pleaded guilty to three counts of embezzling more than $20,000 from the estate of Robert Howard, who died in December 2006 at age 84.

First, McQuillan is to serve at least six years in prison.

Jackson County Circuit Judge John McBain went well beyond state sentencing guidelines, which called for 10 to 23 months in prison or jail, and sentenced McQuillan on Thursday to six to 10 years in prison.

McBain said the guidelines did not adequately reflect the amount of money stolen — more than $800,000 — and McQuillan’s abuse of his position of trust.

“Action of an attorney like you, it damages the reputation of every attorney in the country,” McBain said.

Discovery Bay caretaker arrested in death of elderly man

By Robert Salonga
Contra Costa Times

07/20/2009

A live-in caretaker was arrested after an elderly man was found dead in his home and his wife was hospitalized because of heat-related ailments, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office said.

Investigators suspect that the woman, who has been caring for the wife for less than a year, did not turn on the home’s air conditioning in 100-degree weather, said sheriff’s spokesman Jimmy Lee.

Sheriff’s deputies went to a home in the 1200 block of Discovery Bay Boulevard about 11:15 p.m. Saturday, where an elderly man was reported as not breathing. Firefighters and an ambulance were already there and George Brim, 90, was pronounced dead in an upstairs bedroom. His 85-year-old wife, Shirley Brim, was hospitalized with heat-related ailments.

While an investigation is in its early stages, Lee said it was apparent to investigators that the air conditioning in the home, which was to be monitored by the caretaker, had not been turned on in some time. The windows of the bedroom where the man was found dead were closed when emergency crews arrived.

Prosecutor: Elderly Sonoma man killed for the inheritance

By LORI A. CARTER
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

July 8, 2009

A 20-year-old man killed his grandfather with a shotgun blast to the back of the head in Sonoma last year because he wanted his inheritance early, Sonoma County prosecutors said Wednesday in opening statements of the man’s murder trial.

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

09th July 2009

An elderly widow died after she broke her hip and was left in agony without medical attention for 14 hours at a private nursing home.

When Winifred Mitchell was eventually taken to hospital with an ‘obvious’ fracture, she contracted pneumonia and died eight days later, an inquest heard.

A pathologist said the broken hip contributed to her death.

Mrs Mitchell, 87, had gone to stay at the residential home only to allow her carer daughter to go on holiday.

She was ‘screaming out in pain’ and pressing her alarm buzzer throughout the night after falling from a wheelchair which had been left without its brakes on, the Sheffield coroner was told.

July 13, 2009

Dozens of mostly elderly Montreal residents gathered at a hotel on Sunday to swap tales of loss and betrayal.

Joined by their frantic families, they’re among some 50 people believed to have lost millions of dollars in an alleged Ponzi scheme.

Local and provincial police were at the meeting gathering statements.

Quebec authorities have frozen the accounts of Montreal financial planner Earl Jones and are trying to locate him.

Jones has not been charged with any crime. A police investigation is underway.

Seniors face issues during their golden years

By Diana DeCharles

July 13, 2009

While many of today’s senior citizens are fully capable of handling all of their own financial matters, elder financial fraud and abuse remains a problem. Elder financial abuse, as defined by the National Center on Elder Abuse is, “the illegal taking, misuse, or concealment of funds, property, or assets of a vulnerable elder at risk for harm by another due to changes in physical functioning, mental functioning or both.”

According to a study called “Broken Trust: Elders, Family and Finances” which was done in collaboration with the Mature Market Institute, National Committee for Prevention of Elder Abuse, and Center for Gerontology at Virginia Tech, financial loss is estimated to be at least $2.6 billion dollars annually. A much actual larger dollar amount is actually suspected since many such cases go unreported.

According to the FBI’s Web site there are many forms of fraud, including health insurance fraud, telemarketing fraud, and the Sweetheart Scam.

Medicare schemes often involve medical equipment manufacturers offering free products in exchange for a Medicare beneficiary’s Medicare number. To avoid these scams, never ever sign a blank insurance form and keep accurate records. If you have any questions about a transaction, call your insurance company immediately.

In telemarketing fraud, a scam artist will call and say that you’ve won a prize, free gift or a vacation. Unfortunately, in order to receive your “free” prize you must send money or give them a bank account or credit card number. Never ever give such information to a caller. To avoid this type of fraud, do not pay for a “free” prize, don’t buy from a company you don’t know, and check with the Better Business Bureau, the state Attorney General or the National Fraud Information Center before you agree to anything.

A “Sweetheart Scam” occurs when a woman, often younger, “befriends” an older man. She wins his affections and manipulates him into letting her take over his estate and financial affairs.

Another major area of elder financial abuse is perpetuated on seniors by family, friends, and even strangers. In fact 55 percent of the time families, friends, neighbors and caregivers are found to have been involved. One of the reasons the elderly are at more risk is their larger net worth and their greater vulnerability.

There are three action steps you can take to avoid being a victim:

· Be organized. Develop a system for keeping up with your bills, investment accounts. Use a shredder. Have the bank send copies of your statements to a trusted adult child or financial manager. (Two sets of eyes are better than one.)

· Be informed. Know where you can go if you suspect financial abuse. Work with your attorney to review all of your estate planning documents periodically as well as to keep your power of attorney updated.

· Be alert. Keep valuables in a secure place. Before you sign any documents have someone you trust review them.

July 7, 2009

According to the Elder Financial Protection Network (www.bewiseonline.org), elder financial abuse may be the “crime of the 21st century” as a quickly growing elder population becomes an attractive target for exploiters and abusers. Here are some ways that older adults can protect themselves from financial fraud:

• Plan ahead and protect your assets. Talk to someone at your financial institution, an attorney, or a financial advisor; don’t wait for a telephone or door-to-door solicitor to contact you.

West Valley woman accused of elder abuse

July 7, 2009

A West Valley City woman was charged Tuesday after prosecutors say she abandoned her duties as a caretaker of a 90-year-old woman she lived with.

The woman, 35, was charged with one count of aggravated abuse or neglect of a disabled or elder adult, a second-degree felony.

Police responded to Pioneer Valley Hospital on June 8 on an aggravated elder abuse case, according to charging documents. Detectives spoke with hospital staffers who said one of their 90-year-old patients had recently lost a considerable amount of weight, was suffering from renal failure, pneumonia and had multiple bedsores.

Orosi man arrested on suspicion of elder abuse

July 8, 2009

An Orosi man has been arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, according to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department.

Deputies Monday responded to a house in the 12800 block of Avenue 414, where they discovered a 72-year-old man with visible injuries caused by an assault, the department reported. Floralio Diza Jr., 38, was arrested and booked into the Tulare County Main Jail.

No information was available on the condition of the older man.

by Elizabeth Stawicki, Minnesota Public Radio

July 7, 2009

We’ve heard of children and caregivers physically exploiting seniors, but it turns out that abuse between partners and spouses is also substantial–and a largely hidden problem.

Advocates say society’s understanding of the problem is where domestic and child abuse was 35 years ago. The abuse doesn’t necessarily end as people age — it’s just not reported.

The year was 1946. The world was no longer at war, but Mabel’s battle was just beginning.

Mabel was 20, living in a small, southwestern Minnesota town near the South Dakota border when she married.

In public, he shined with charm, but at home, he berated her with sarcasm and threats, and forcefully grabbed her. After her two children were born, she tried to shield them and fight back. It never ended well.

“That was hard on me because I’d walk around with a black eye or wreck my glasses,” Mabel said. “Where we lived, nobody asked.”

Mabel said she would have gotten her marriage anulled, had she known about that option at the time. She went to see her local priest, but said her husband charmed him as well.

Seeing no way out, she tried to manage the abuse — for 61 years.

Signs of domestic abuse for older persons:

· – Isolation/withdrawal from friends and family

· – Visible but unexplained injuries: bruises/abrasions/burns

· – Repeated accidental injuries and vague complaints

· – Depression

· – Suicidal thoughts

· – Unexplained weight loss or gain

· – Poorly groomed

· – Pain: abdominal, pelvic, headaches

· – Disturbance in sleep pattern: insomnia, fatigue, excessive sleep

Source: MN Network on Abuse in Later Life

Hotlines/Information numbers:

· Senior LinkAge Line: 1-800-333-2433

· Minnesota Domestic Violence Crisis Line: 1-866-223-1111

· If not in Minnesota, the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Red Bluff man jailed in kidnap report

Staff Report

07/06/2009

A 45-year-old Red Bluff man has been arrested on suspicion of stealing his mother’s car, assaulting her and taking her to Sacramento against her will, according to a Red Bluff Police Department press release issued Saturday.

Police were contacted Friday morning by 77-year-old Janice Touchstone when her son, Joseph Touchstone, refused to leave her apartment. When police arrived, they learned Joseph Touchstone had taken his mother’s gray 2002 Dodge Neon without her permission.

Further investigation revealed Joseph Touchstone had taken his mother to Sacramento against her will on July 1, and assaulted her when she tried to get the attention of fellow motorists, according to Officer Vincent Marshall.

On Friday, officers found Joseph Touchstone driving the vehicle on Monroe Street. He was arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft, kidnapping and elder abuse and booked into the Tehama County Jail.

Bail is $70,000.

State’s Democrats seek protection for seniors

By BARRETT NEWKIRK

THE ENQUIRER

JUNE 30, 2009

Democrats in the Michigan House of Representatives are pushing a plan to strengthen the state’s elder abuse laws.

The package of bills, dubbed the Elder Abuse Protection Plan, would increase penalties for people convicted of cheating senior citizens and increase consumer protections. Rep. Kate Segal, D-Battle Creek, is sponsoring one of the plan’s bills.

The legislation comes after some high-profile abuse cases made headlines around the state, including two Flint brothers charged with abuse this month after allegedly selling their grandfather’s prescription painkillers. Reports of elder abuse in Michigan have increased 40 percent since 1998, according to the Michigan Department of Human Services.

“What is happening in this state, it is unthinkable and unspeakable,” Segal said during a press conference Monday.

Segal’s bill would require legal guardians to report the cash and cash-convertible assets of an incapacitated person to the court.

Other bills in the plan would require employees of nursing homes and financial institutions to report suspected cases of elder abuse, make it a felony to obtain a signature through fraud or deceit, and prohibit someone charged with felony abuse to win an inheritance from the victim’s estate.

July 7, 2009

According to the Elder Financial Protection Network (www.bewiseonline.org), elder financial abuse may be the “crime of the 21st century” as a quickly growing elder population becomes an attractive target for exploiters and abusers. Here are some ways that older adults can protect themselves from financial fraud:

• Plan ahead and protect your assets. Talk to someone at your financial institution, an attorney, or a financial advisor; don’t wait for a telephone or door-to-door solicitor to contact you.

Prosecutor: Elderly Sonoma man killed for the inheritance

By LORI A. CARTER
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

July 8, 2009

A 20-year-old man killed his grandfather with a shotgun blast to the back of the head in Sonoma last year because he wanted his inheritance early, Sonoma County prosecutors said Wednesday in opening statements of the man’s murder trial.

BY KATIE ANDERSON

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

July 6, 2009

It is estimated as many as 80,000 older adults in Illinois fall victim to elder abuse in the form of neglect, sexual, physical or mental abuse or financial exploitation each year.

“Each day in Illinois, someone is the victim of elder abuse but most do not receive help because the cases often go unreported,” said Charles D. Johnson, director of the Department on Aging.

To help raise awareness of the abuse that happens to those over 60 years old, the Illinois Department on Aging has launched the first Elder Abuse Awareness month in coordination with its fifth annual “Break the Silence” campaign.

Although more than 11,000 reports of elder abuse were made between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009 according to the Department on Aging, the agency suspects dramatically more older Illinoisans are being abused.

“Our seniors deserve to feel safe and to be treated with respect,” Johnson said. “We want people to know there’s help available. If you are a victim, know or suspect someone who is being victimized, pick up the phone to get them some help.”

In 2007, there were 61 cases of elderly abuse received from Morgan, Cass and Scott counties according to the Area Agency on Aging for the Lincolnland area.

The most common substantiated cases were financial exploitation and emotional abuse. There were no claims substantiated of sexual abuse or willful deprivation — willfully denying assistance to an older adult thereby exposing the person to risk of harm.

Verbal assaults, threats of abuse, harassment or intimidation can all be reported as emotional abuse. The misuse or withholding of an elder’s resources to their disadvantage or the profit of another person can be considered financial exploitation.

BY KATIE ANDERSON

Jacksonville Journal-Courier

July 6, 2009

It is estimated as many as 80,000 older adults in Illinois fall victim to elder abuse in the form of neglect, sexual, physical or mental abuse or financial exploitation each year.

“Each day in Illinois, someone is the victim of elder abuse but most do not receive help because the cases often go unreported,” said Charles D. Johnson, director of the Department on Aging.

To help raise awareness of the abuse that happens to those over 60 years old, the Illinois Department on Aging has launched the first Elder Abuse Awareness month in coordination with its fifth annual “Break the Silence” campaign.

Although more than 11,000 reports of elder abuse were made between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009 according to the Department on Aging, the agency suspects dramatically more older Illinoisans are being abused.

“Our seniors deserve to feel safe and to be treated with respect,” Johnson said. “We want people to know there’s help available. If you are a victim, know or suspect someone who is being victimized, pick up the phone to get them some help.”

In 2007, there were 61 cases of elderly abuse received from Morgan, Cass and Scott counties according to the Area Agency on Aging for the Lincolnland area.

The most common substantiated cases were financial exploitation and emotional abuse. There were no claims substantiated of sexual abuse or willful deprivation — willfully denying assistance to an older adult thereby exposing the person to risk of harm.

Verbal assaults, threats of abuse, harassment or intimidation can all be reported as emotional abuse. The misuse or withholding of an elder’s resources to their disadvantage or the profit of another person can be considered financial exploitation.

By ALEX DOTY
Sentinel-Standard writer

June 29, 2009

With baby boomers aging and more of the population entering their golden years, local lawmakers are doing their part to ensure that senior citizens don’t end up being victimized by those preying on the elderly community.

Rep. Mike Huckleberry, D-Greenville, called elder abuse a concern for residents of Michigan.

“(Elder abuse) often gets swept under the rug here in Michigan,” Rep. Mike Huckleberry, D-Greenville, said during the unveiling of the plan Monday afternoon.

Under a new plan backed by Huckleberry and recently introduced into the state legislature, there would be increased penalties for cheating or defrauding seniors, citizens would be empowered to file criminal complaints against those who scam seniors and they would require financial institutions to do more to disclose the rights of seniors and disclose against fraud.

“The penalties and protections on the books when it comes to elder abuse are not strict enough,” Rep. Mary Valentine, D-Norton Shores, said.

Valentine, who was in Ionia along with Huckleberry to announce the plan, knows all too well the affects of elder abuse on its victims and families.

“This is a topic that is near and dear to my heart,” she said, adding at one time her uncle had fallen victim to financial abuse.

In especially hard economic times, Valentine also said financial elder abuse can hit close to home, especially when some family members might prey on unsuspecting seniors as a means for financial well-being.

In addition to providing protection against fraud and scams against senior citizens, the plan would also create a special community alert in the event of a senior going missing.

Called the Mozelle Alert, it would be a way to notify the public in case a senior citizen goes missing.

It was named after Detroit resident Estella Mozelle Pierce who died after wandering from her home, would be similar to an Amber Alert.

Additionally, with many at the state level doing what it takes to improve the economy by releasing certain offenders from prison, legislators don’t see the elder abuse crackdown as something that will put people back in jail.

“This is stopping people from going to jail,” Huckleberry said, adding the plan would be a deterrent aimed at preventing abuse.

He also called the jail space well deserved for those who do happen to be abusing senior citizens.

“If someone is abusing a senior, they belong in jail,” Huckleberry said.

According to Huckleberry, now that the legislation has been introduced, it is anticipated that it will be further hammered out in various committees before any future legislative action is taken.

“I think we have a good chance of this going through,” he said.

Rep. Brian Calley, R-Portland, said although he hasn’t had the chance to look over the proposal, he believes with people living longer these topics deserve a more thorough look in order to better protect senior citizens.

SOURCE: Sentinel-Standard – Ionia,MI,USA

State’s Democrats seek protection for seniors

By BARRETT NEWKIRK

THE ENQUIRER

JUNE 30, 2009

Democrats in the Michigan House of Representatives are pushing a plan to strengthen the state’s elder abuse laws.

The package of bills, dubbed the Elder Abuse Protection Plan, would increase penalties for people convicted of cheating senior citizens and increase consumer protections. Rep. Kate Segal, D-Battle Creek, is sponsoring one of the plan’s bills.

The legislation comes after some high-profile abuse cases made headlines around the state, including two Flint brothers charged with abuse this month after allegedly selling their grandfather’s prescription painkillers. Reports of elder abuse in Michigan have increased 40 percent since 1998, according to the Michigan Department of Human Services.

“What is happening in this state, it is unthinkable and unspeakable,” Segal said during a press conference Monday.

Segal’s bill would require legal guardians to report the cash and cash-convertible assets of an incapacitated person to the court.

Other bills in the plan would require employees of nursing homes and financial institutions to report suspected cases of elder abuse, make it a felony to obtain a signature through fraud or deceit, and prohibit someone charged with felony abuse to win an inheritance from the victim’s estate.

Group fights elder abuse

By KANDACE MCCOY

July 05, 2009

This month kicks off the fifth annual statewide “Break the Silence” campaign to raise awareness about elder abuse, and local officials want residents to not only recognize the signs of elder abuse but know how to make a difference.

“The elder abuse program responds to alleged abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of a person 60 years of age or older,” explained Jean Bonhoff, executive director of Senior Services of Jefferson County. “The program provides investigation, intervention and follow up services to victims.”

The Effingham County Committee on Aging is the provider agency for elder abuse in Jefferson, Marion, Clay, Fayette and Effingham counties, Bonhoff clarified, which has seen an increase in reports of elderly abuse.

Red Bluff man jailed in kidnap report

Staff Report

07/06/2009

A 45-year-old Red Bluff man has been arrested on suspicion of stealing his mother’s car, assaulting her and taking her to Sacramento against her will, according to a Red Bluff Police Department press release issued Saturday.

Police were contacted Friday morning by 77-year-old Janice Touchstone when her son, Joseph Touchstone, refused to leave her apartment. When police arrived, they learned Joseph Touchstone had taken his mother’s gray 2002 Dodge Neon without her permission.

Further investigation revealed Joseph Touchstone had taken his mother to Sacramento against her will on July 1, and assaulted her when she tried to get the attention of fellow motorists, according to Officer Vincent Marshall.

On Friday, officers found Joseph Touchstone driving the vehicle on Monroe Street. He was arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft, kidnapping and elder abuse and booked into the Tehama County Jail.

Bail is $70,000.

Police officers help combat elder abuse

By Kathleen Ostrander

THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER

Jul 08, 2009

Chris Bolinger has been the Springfield Police Department’s Elder Service officer for two years. It’s a job he takes as seriously as when he was with the drug unit.

“Chris’ first day on the job,” recalled Jay Magnuson, who prosecutes crimes against the elderly for the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s office, involved an arrest.

“There was an elderly man, so weak he had to scoot his chair across the kitchen floor to answer the door. His fingernails were two inches long, and the food in the refrigerator was moldy or had maggots in it. He was so thin he looked like a concentration camp refugee. Chris called for an ambulance.

“While they were getting him out, a man drove up in a nice new Corvette and asked Chris what was going on, because he was the man’s son,” Magnuson said. “As soon as he (the man’s son) said he was ‘taking care of’ his father, Chris had the cuffs on him. Chris saves people. That’s it. Pure and simple. He saves people.”