Crimes Against the Elderly in Florida’s Large Retirement Population
Across the country, criminal statutes are being amended to provide clear guidance and strict penalties for those who abuse the elderly. Here in Florida, with our large retiree population, such laws are particularly important to help protect the elderly from physical, sexual, and financial abuse. Unfortunately, these cases can present complicated evidentiary issues. Many elderly victims suffer from dementia and other mental disorders that make them challenging witnesses with questionable credibility. In such cases, prosecutors often resort to circumstantial evidence or even hearsay. When prosecutors begin walking that evidentiary tightrope, it is easy for a defendant’s legal rights to get lost in the shuffle. This is why it is so important for any suspect being investigated for elder abuse to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
The experienced defense attorney at Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney has represented defendants in state and federal courts throughout Florida. We can help protect you from unlawful convictions based upon illegal evidence or confessions. In addition, we can identify the best legal strategy for a timely and fair resolution to your case. Call (305) 615-1285 for a free phone consultation as soon as possible.
Cases of Physical, Sexual, and Financial Abuse of Florida Elders
There are many different types of abuse that can occur against elderly victims. Such victims are often made especially vulnerable to abuse due to physical or mental impairments. Such was the case with a 94-year-old amputee who claimed the staff at the assisted living facility where she resides were “too rough” with her. NBC Miami reports that the resident’s son placed a camera in her room to record the care she received. After the recording was turned over to law enforcement, a caregiver at the facility was arrested and charged with abuse of an elderly person.
And in Gainesville, a physical therapy assistant spent a year in prison after fondling the breasts of two separate elderly patients. According to the Miami Herald, the man pled guilty to two counts of battery on a person over the age of 65, and one count of indecent sexual exposure. Surprisingly, the man’s professional license with the Florida Department of Health is currently still in effect (subject to an emergency restriction preventing him from working with female clients). The Florida Department of Health plans to initiate formal disciplinary proceedings now that his legal case is complete.
Contact Us Today to Discuss Your Case with a Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer
Elder abuse cases involve significant legal rights for both elderly Florida residents and defendants. The state and victim have the right to their own attorneys, and it is important for defendants to also hire an attorney who is experienced enough to fully defend their constitutional rights. This is the only way to adequately protect defendants from a conviction based upon questionable testimony or circumstantial evidence. The experienced defense attorney at Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney can help protect your legal rights at every step of the criminal process. Call (305) 615-1285 for a free phone consultation as soon as possible. You can also contact us through our online contact form.
Stroleny Law: Criminal Defense Attorney handles a variety of criminal law cases, so call now if you have any questions.
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