Program Focuses on Senior Scam Awareness (FL. USA)

DeLand program focuses on senior scam awareness
BY PATRICIO G. BALONA, STAFF WRITER
February 15, 2012

DELAND -- Poring over three years worth of reports, Officer Rod Hancock could not find evidence that a scam has been committed against a senior in DeLand, he said.
But that's not to say crimes against seniors do not occur. Some don't report the crime for fear of embarrassment, Hancock said.
For instance, in February 2010, police records show Matthew Hines, 41, was arrested and charged with exploiting a 64-year-old disabled woman recovering at a nursing home after being hospitalized with a stroke.
Police said Hines cashed several of her checks without her permission.
The DeLand Police Department has taken a proactive approach to help prevent seniors from becoming victims of crimes.

In his experience, Hancock said telemarketing fraud seems to be the trend against seniors in surrounding areas.

"We are seeing an upsurge in cold calls," Hancock said. "These are calls for solicitations to seniors over the telephone."

REPORT CRIMES: Under this program, seniors can come to their local police department and talk about how they were scammed or overbilled or about any other crime committed against them. "It's a viable alternative for seniors who feel like they have no one else to turn to," Henderson said.

WHERE TO CALL: If you are senior and you need help with some civil issue, you can visit the DeLand police station at 291 W. Howry Ave. or call            386-740-5875       and ask for Roberta Lewis or            386-740-5885       and ask for Officer Rod Hancock.

SOURCE:      NewsJournalOnline

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