Task force aims to stop crimes against elderly
Two lawmakers create task force to prevent and prosecute elder abuse crimes.
EDWARD LEWIS
June 13, 2008
WILKES-BARRE – Prosecutors know elder abuse sometimes goes unreported.
Two state lawmakers came together to create a multi-agency task force to educate the public and prevent and prosecute crimes committed against senior citizens.
On Thursday, state representatives Phyllis Mundy, D-Kingston, and Karen Boback, R-Harveys Lake, announced the formation of a 33-member Elder Abuse Task Force.
The task force is made up of law enforcement, prosecutors, lawmakers, educators, and social service providers who will soon begin a public awareness campaign in Luzerne and Wyoming counties.
Luzerne County District Attorney Jacqueline Musto Carroll said seniors are sometimes ashamed to report crimes. She said the task force will provide the resources to help those victims.
“We are here, we are about you, we will do whatever we can to help,” Musto Carroll said.
Wyoming County District Attorney George Skumanick pledged to prosecute criminals who target elders.
“I can guarantee you, we will be using the resources of our office,” Skumanick said. “You will be held responsible.”
Skumanick said the task force will provide training for police officers to easily recognize elder abuse.
Abridged
SOURCE: TimesLeaderNews
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