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To assist with elder victims’ needs, we have established a Victim/Witness Program in my office specifically for senior citizens.  This program is designed to provide help in dealing with the physical, emotional and financial impact of being a victim.

This help is available to all victims of Barnstable , Dukes and Nantucket Counties . As a victim of crime, you are important to the District Attorney’s Office.  When you report a crime to the police and testify in Court you make an essential contribution to the safety of the entire community.  Remember … without your help, we’re all victims!

The goal of our Elder Abuse Unit is to assist and support elder victims of abuse.  Victim/Witness Assistants are available to provide more information or assist you throughout the court process.

TYPES OF ABUSE OR MISTREATMENT

Physical Abuse

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, welts, burns, fractures, and lacerations
• Sexual assaults

Financial Exploitation

• Mismanagement of elders’ incomes or assets
• Misappropriation of elders’ properties

Physical, Psychological and Emotional Neglect

• Malnourishment
• Unsafe living environment
• Medication mismanagement
• Social isolation
• Improperly clothed
• Poor hygiene

 

WHO SHOULD REPORT SUSPECTED ELDER ABUSE?

Certain professionals are mandated by law to report suspected abuse.  Mandated reporters include physicians, nurses, other medical personnel, social workers, and police officers.

Any individual, however, witnessing or suspecting mistreatment or abuse should report it.

HOW DO I REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE?

If you are a victim or a witness to elder abuse or suspected abuse, call your local police department or Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands at 1-800-244-4630 during business hours or at their hotline number 1-800-922-2275 after business hours.

You may also contact the District Attorney’s Office at (508) 362-8113 or 1-800-344-CPAC.

HOW CAN I AVOID BEING A VICTIM?

·        Be aware of your finances

·        Know what you are signing

·        Consult an attorney about guardianship, conservatorship, wills, and property matters

·        Have an up-to-date will

·        Try to maintain social contacts within your community

·        If an adult child wishes to return to live with you, think it over carefully

 

VICTIM/WITNESS RIGHTS

As provided under Chapter 258B Mass General Laws

·        Information about court system and case status

·        Freedom from threats, harassment and intimidation

·        Information regarding available compensation, restitution and witness fees

·        Transportation to and from Court, if necessary

·        Employer and creditor intercession

·        Return of property

·        Social Service referrals

·        Secure waiting area during court proceedings

·        The right to address the Court before sentencing

·        Notice of final case disposition

·        Notice of defendant’s release/escape from custody