NCJ Number
145401
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Dated: (1991) Pages: 5-34
Date Published
1991
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This article discussed the benefits the criminal justice system can provide to the victims of elder abuse. The procedures involved and the role of protective services staff are discussed.
Abstract
Most cases of elder abuse involve a family member as the perpetrator. As in other cases of domestic violence, these cases were historically treated as a private family matter. Violence against family members is no longer acceptable in our society, and one way to make that clear to perpetrators of such violence is to criminalize their behavior and impose sanctions. This has been found to be an effective tool in stopping the criminal behavior. This report enumerates some of the benefits the criminal justice system can provide the victims of elder abuse. The stages of the criminal process and the procedural aspects of a criminal case involving elder abuse are explained. The report emphasizes the critical role that protective service staff play in identifying victims of abuse and in providing information and documentation that can assist in making a criminal case against an abuser.