NCJ Number
103952
Date Published
1986
Length
91 pages
Annotation
This study reviews the criminal victimization rates for elderly persons in New York State for 1983-1984, describes the State's response to crimes against the elderly, and recommends State action in this area.
Abstract
The National Crime Survey (a victimization survey) and arrest data both indicate that in virtually every discrete crime category, victimization rates for the elderly are lower than for other age groups; however, larceny without contact, especially pocketbook snatch, and certain frauds, such as confidence games, apparently impact the elderly more than other age groups. Elderly men have a higher victimization rate than elderly women, and elderly blacks are more likely to be victimized than elderly whites. In recent years, the number of elderly New Yorkers has been increasing at a significant rate, which substantially impacts government policy for dealing with this age group. State programs that have already been undertaken include crime prevention, victim services, and referral services. Programs for the abused elderly have also been undertaken. Some recommendations for future action include the publicizing of available funding for programs for the elderly and of exemplary programs for the elderly, funding for contacting elderly victims of violent crime to determine their needs and refer them to appropriate services, and legislation to permit the use of closed circuit televised testimony by elderly crime victims. 20 tables.