Elder Abuse

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The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office investigates crimes against elders and dependent adults within our contract cities and unincorporated areas. The Sheriff's Office is committed to the successful prosecution of those committing crimes against elders and dependent adults.

According to California State Penal Code 368 P.C., the State of California considers those persons age 65 and older to be elders. Persons between 18 and 64 years old who have physical and/or mental limitations that restrict their ability to carry out normal activities or to protect their rights are considered dependent adults.

For more information or to help stop elder abuse, visit the San Diego County Aging and Independence Services or call the Elder Abuse Hotline at (800) 510-2020.

If you or someone you know is a victim of elder or dependent abuse, contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office at (858) 868-3200.

If you would like more information on the Take Me Home program, please visit the following link.

Abuse

Types of Abuse

Physical: Striking, hitting, pushing, shoving, physical restraint, lack of medical care
Sexual: Non-consensual acts, sexual assault, sexual exploitation
Emotional/Psychological: Threats, insults, intimidation, harassment, isolation
Financial: Fraud, forgery, identity theft, scams, embezzlement
Neglect: Denial of or inadequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care, provision for basic needs

Learn more about types of abuse from the National Center on Elder Abuse.

Possible Signs of Abuse

Bruises, swelling, fractures, cuts, wounds, rope marks or unexplained/untreated injuries
Sudden changes in behavior
Report from medical professional of possible abuse
Caregiver’s refusal to allow visitors to see elder alone

For more information on San Diego's local advocacy agencies, please use the following resources:

Identity Theft

Identity theft is the obtaining of the personal identifying information of another person and the use of that information for any unlawful purpose. Never give out any personal identifying information unless you initiated the call and know who you are talking to. To learn more about Identity Theft and how you can protect yourself against Identity Theft, click on one or more of the following links:

Scams

Criminals are targeting the elderly with numerous scams designed to earn your trust and steal your money. Often these scams seem like legitimate causes, or even opportunities to help the less fortunate. But they are not. Sadly, some people make their “living” by using fraud and deceit to trick unwitting victims into giving them money. Always confirm the cause is legitimate before sending any money. An honest person or business won’t mind if you check their legitimacy, a scammer will.

To learn more about scams and how to protect yourself or a loved one, click on one or more of the following links:

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