Millions of older people experience some type of abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation every year, with devastating consequences to their physical, social, financial, and psychological well-being. While the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) investigates and prosecutes a wide array of transnational and domestic fraud schemes that target older adults, state and local law enforcement are frequently the first responders to many forms of elder abuse. For this reason, the DOJ is dedicated to supporting and enhancing the ability of law enforcement and other elder justice professionals to effectively identify and respond to elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and fraud.

Understanding Elder Abuse

Law enforcement is on the front lines of elder abuse. However, not all law enforcement officers may be familiar with the many forms of elder abuse. Some may not believe elder abuse is a problem in their community, which invokes the adage “If you don’t look, you won’t see it.” At least 10 percent of older adults (aged 60+) in the United States experience some form of elder abuse each year.¹ Older adults rely on law enforcement to be aware of the red flags and to respond quickly when their well-being is in jeopardy. Elder abuse has some specific elements that make it distinct from other forms of family violence.