Media invited to attend April 1st opening session, which begins at 8:00 a.m.
On Wednesday, April 1, a two-day statewide training entitled “Recognizing and responding to
abuse of the elderly and the disabled” will be held for Delaware law enforcement and first responders.
The training, offered by Attorney General Biden’s Senior Abuse Initiative and hosted by the New
Castle County Police Department, is designed to educate state and local police officers, first
responders, and other law enforcement personnel to identify the signs of senior abuse and ensure that
those cases are directed to appropriate personnel for investigation and prosecution.
Event: Recognizing and Responding to Abuse of the Elderly and the Disabled
Location: New Castle County Police Department, 3601 North Dupont Highway, New Castle
Date/time: Wednesday, April 1, 8:00 a.m.
Topics covered throughout the training include:
• Recognizing the signs of senior abuse and understanding senior abuse dynamics
• Exploring the correlation between senior abuse and domestic violence
• Reviewing civil versus criminal statutes and remedies
• Response protocols (recognition, documentation, referral, investigation)
• Investigative strategies
Senior abuse consists of a range of crimes, including verbal and physical abuse, neglect, and
sexual and financial exploitation. Studies have shown that for every case of senior abuse that is
reported, five cases go unreported. In September, 2008, Attorney General Biden established the Senior
Protection Initiative to expand efforts to prosecute abusers and to encourage victims to come forward.
He also created a statewide Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT), under the direction of experienced senior
abuse prosecutor, Deputy Attorney General Marsha White, to coordinate the services of state agencies,
law enforcement, and advocates to identify, prosecute, and prevent these crimes.
Instructors at this week’s training include Special Investigator Lester Johnson, Special
Investigator at the Attorney General’s Office, and Pamela Williams, Social Services Administrator for
Delaware’s Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities.
Media interested in attending Wednesday’s session should contact the Attorney General’s
Public Information Office at (302) 577-8949. Learn more about the Senior Protection Initiative by
visiting: http://www.attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/family/elderlyviolence/elderlyabuseandexpl.shtml
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