Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh announced the launch of the new unit last week to combat abuse against adults 60 and older.
Assistant Summit County prosecutors will work with Summit County Adult Protective Services to review and prosecute criminal and civil cases involving abuse of seniors. The Senior Protection Unit will also collaborate with local leaders and organizations to provide safety information, trainings and self-defense classes for the community.
“This unit will ensure that those who take advantage of the elderly will be held accountable," Walsh said. "As a community, we have a responsibility to prevent and report abuse. Seniors should not suffer alone in silence."
According to the National Council on Aging, about one in 10 people 60 or older have experienced elder abuse.
Elder abuse includes physical, sexual and emotional abuse as well as neglect, deprivation, confinement and financial exploitation.
The
prosecutor's office urges anyone experiencing, aware of or suspecting
abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult living in
Summit County to call 330-643-7217 or 911.
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