National Association to Stop Guardian Abuse

Maine Supreme Court rules people in guardianships, conservatorships have right to effective counsel

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Fri, 15 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

By Carol Bousquet

In this Thursday, April 12, 2018, photo, the Maine Supreme Court sits during a hearing in Portland, Maine.

The Maine Supreme Court has ruled that people in guardianships or conservatorships have a right to effective legal counsel.

The ruling involves the case of a disabled man who sought to terminate his guardianship and alleged his attorney was ineffective. Cumberland County Probate Court denied the man's petition and he appealed to the supreme court.

Lauren Wille, Legal Director for Disability Rights Maine, said the ruling acknowledges the rights of people that have been denied in the past.

"So the court is specifically and explicitly finding that counsel has to be effective, and they're laying out a process by which people under guardianship or conservatorship can challenge the effectiveness of their counsel," Wille said.

Disability Rights Maine did an analysis of guardianship and conservatorship cases between 2019 and 2021 and found that about 75% of those clients were not represented by legal counsel.

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Maine Supreme Court rules people in guardianships, conservatorships have right to effective counsel

Fraudsters Scam Elderly Man Out of $25K, Claiming His Account Was Linked to an Illegal Child Exploitation Ring

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Fri, 15 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

by Mary Boldish James

An elderly man in Ventura County, California, was scammed out of $25,000 by a pair of fraudsters claiming he was linked to an illegal child exploitation ring in Canada. The scam began as a text message and quickly spiraled out of control.

A Scary Situation

Shaohua Sun, of Monterey Park, and Yanwen Gu, of Rosemead, both located near Los Angeles, pleaded guilty this month after being caught scamming an elderly Ventura resident out of $25,000 with plans to extort an additional $50,000 from the man and his wife.

The victim received a text message asking him to verify a $350 purchase at the Apple Store. A phone number urged the man to call “immediately” if he hadn’t made the purchase.

The Ventura Police Step In

According to the Ventura County Police, “Once on the phone, an unidentified co-conspirator falsely claimed the elder victim’s local credit union account was linked to supposed child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) content based in Canada. The elder victim was then directed to call a telephone number supposedly belonging to the 'Ventura County Credit Union Fraud Department.'”

The caller, identifying herself as “Jade,” instructed the victim to immediately withdraw $25,000 in cash and meet a purported undercover police officer in the City of Ventura to surrender the funds as “evidence,” the police report concludes.

After delivering the money, the victim and his wife began to suspect they’d been scammed and called the police. “Jade” reached back out, demanding an additional $50,000. Ventura police helped the man complete the next drop and arrested Gu and Sun at the scene.

Elaborate Scams

These scams often target older adults, but can claim victims of any age. They are sometimes initiated as text messages, but can also be phone calls or emails. You should always ignore these messages, no matter how official they look. If you’re uncomfortable ignoring them, you can independently call your credit card company or bank to discuss the potential charges.

You should never respond to messages like these or call a number provided by the scammer. Always contact financial institutions or companies through their official communication channels, as listed on your card or on the company website.

The Recovery

Lucky for the victim, the scammers did surrender the original $25,000 cash. Now they both face up to 4 years in prison, with an additional 2 years of probation. Hopefully, the scammers will receive the longest possible punishment, and the victim will never have to endure an ordeal like this again.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

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Fraudsters Scam Elderly Man Out of $25K, Claiming His Account Was Linked to an Illegal Child Exploitation Ring

Live-In Caretaker Charged With Felony Elder Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Thu, 14 May 2026 06:30:00 +0000

Southampton Town Police arrested a Queens man on Monday and charged him with a felony welfare endangerment charge after being tipped off that the man was physically abusing a person in his care.

Police charged Michael Roopmarine, 63, with two counts of endangering the welfare of a vulnerable, elderly or disabled person in the second degree, a felony punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Police said they received a tip from an individual who came to police headquarters in Hampton Bays to report that Roopmarine was physically abusing an elderly man for whom he was a live-in caretaker. Officers responded to the Hampton Bays home and found the alleged victim and Roopmarine together.

The elderly man was taken to an area hospital for evaluation and treatment. Roopmarine was taken to police headquarters for questioning and was subsequently placed under arrest and arraigned in Southampton Town Justice Court on Tuesday.

Police say the investigation is ongoing and have asked any members of the public who might have more information about the matter to call detectives at 631-702-2230 or 631-702-2238.

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Live-In Caretaker Charged With Felony Elder Abuse

Bill to help financial institutions protect vulnerable adults signed into law

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Thu, 14 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

by Kimberly Querry-Thompson

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — A measure that aims to help financial institutions protect the most vulnerable citizens from being exploited was signed into Oklahoma law.

Senate Bill 2067 is supposed to create stronger safeguards to help financial institutions identify, report, and prevent suspected financial exploitation of protected adults.

“This new law will give financial institutions clear processes to help protect vulnerable adults from increasingly common financial scams,” Sen. Jerry Alvord, R-Wilson, said. “Scammers frequently target older adults, convincing them to hand over funds needed to pay for necessities like medicine, food, and rent. With SB 2067 now law, financial institutions can act swiftly and responsibly to help prevent vulnerable Oklahomans from becoming victims of financial exploitation and losing their hard-earned savings.”

Lawmakers say existing laws limit institutions' ability to give appropriate agencies the information needed to act quickly.

However, this measure removes those barriers so employees can report suspicious transactions internally and notify appropriate agencies.

Banks or credit unions may place a temporary hold on the reported account or alert a trusted contact designated by the account holder. The measure provides immunity to criminal and civil liability to any employee or financial institution acting in good faith and in compliance with the provisions of this measure.

“I was happy to carry this 'makes sense' legislation,” Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore, said. “Bad actors increasingly target and prey upon our older population. Oklahomans aged 60 and older lost more than $50 million to fraud in 2024 alone, a 66 percent increase over 2023. Nationally, adults over 60 reported nearly $4.9 billion in fraud losses in 2024, with average losses exceeding $83,000 per victim. Financial exploitation is a devastating crime– real people are losing their life savings, their independence, and their dignity to these criminals.”

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Bill to help financial institutions protect vulnerable adults signed into law

Woman scammed 87-year-old widow out of $100k in romance scam, warrant says

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Wed, 13 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Lori Mitchell, 59, of Fort Lauderdale, is facing charges of grand theft and exploitation of an elderly person

By NBC6

A South Florida woman is facing serious charges after she defrauded an 87-year-old widow out of over $100,000 by manipulating him into believing they were in a romantic relationship, authorities said.

Lori Mitchell, 59, of Fort Lauderdale, is facing charges of grand theft and exploitation of an elderly person, according to an arrest report from the Broward Sheriff's Office.

The alleged crimes happened between November 2011 and February 2013, according to an arrest warrant. During that time, Mitchell allegedly befriended the then-87-year-old victim, who was lonely after his wife died, and offered to do some interior decorating in his home.

According to the warrant, Mitchell convinced the victim that they were in a romantic relationship by spending time with him and going on dinner dates.

Mitchell would ask the victim for cash loans to fix a million-dollar home in Long Island that she claimed she owned and needed to sell, and promised she would pay him back, the warrant said.

The victim would take out cash loans from several accounts, and the loans eventually totaled up to $108,310, the warrant said. The victim also allegedly helped Mitchell lease a brand-new vehicle, took her out shopping and out to dinner a few times a week.

In the final month of their relationship, Mitchell asked the victim for another $20,000, and the victim turned her down, saying he was in financial hardship and could no longer support her, the warrant said. Mitchell proceeded to ignore the victim and no longer contacted him.

"The defendant made the elderly victim believe that they were in a romantic relationship and preyed upon his loneliness to obtain financial gain," the warrant concluded.

Mitchell was arrested Friday and appeared in bond court on Saturday, where a judge set her bond to $50,000.

The victim died in 2023, according to a prosecutor.

Full Article & Source:
Woman scammed 87-year-old widow out of $100k in romance scam, warrant says

Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Wed, 13 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial exploitation. The Department of Children & Family Services joined Daybreak to discuss.

Source:
Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

Latest on Cher’s Conservatorship Battle Over Her Son

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

By Aidan Lambourne

Cher remains locked in a legal battle over the well-being and finances of her son, Elijah Blue Allman, after a Los Angeles judge denied her latest request for a temporary conservatorship.

The court ruled on April 24 that there was not “sufficient urgency” to justify placing Allman under a conservatorship. In despite of Cher’s claims that her 49-year-old son struggles with severe mental health and substance abuse issues, per TMZ. The judge denied the request without prejudice, which means Cher can file again at a later date.

Allman appeared remotely at the hearing from a psychiatric hospital in New Hampshire. He is reportedly being held there while undergoing competency-related proceedings connected to criminal charges. Authorities previously arrested him on allegations including burglary, trespassing, assault, and criminal mischief earlier this year.

Cher Argued That Her Son Was “Gravely Disabled”

Cher argued in court filings that her son is “gravely disabled” and unable to responsibly manage money from a trust established by his late father, musician Gregg Allman. According to the filings, she claimed he spent trust distributions on drugs, luxury hotels, and limousine services. The judge, however, said the evidence did not prove that Allman lacked legal capacity or that immediate intervention was necessary.

At the same time, new court documents obtained by TMZ indicate that Allman plans to enter a residential treatment facility as part of efforts tied to his legal and mental health challenges. His legal team told the court that New Hampshire bail conditions require him to participate in a dual-diagnosis treatment program focused on mental health and substance use disorder recovery.

The family dispute has also expanded into financial matters. In recent filings connected to his divorce proceedings with estranged wife Marieangela King, Allman claimed Cher stopped financially supporting him in 2021. He said he now relies mainly on monthly trust payments from his father’s estate. He also is seeking to reduce court-ordered spousal support payments.

Cher first sought conservatorship over her son in 2023. She withdrew the case after the two sides reached a private agreement. The current dispute signals that tensions surrounding Allman’s health, finances, and legal troubles remain unresolved.

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Latest on Cher’s Conservatorship Battle Over Her Son

Where Seniors Are Targeted by Scams — 2026 Study

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Tue, 12 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

Written by Toby Nelson

Millions of older Americans are targeted by financial scams each year. One analysis published by the U.S. Department of the Treasury found $27 billion in suspected elder financial exploitation in just a 12-month period. As digital banking, payments and communication become more common, scammers have more ways to reach victims and impersonate trusted institutions. Phishing scams, including business imposter and government imposter fraud, are among the most common methods used to target older Americans.

SmartAsset analyzed fraud reports filed with the Federal Trade Commission by state and age group to determine which areas show the highest rate of reported scams involving residents age 60 and older. The analysis also identified the most common scam type targeting older Americans in each state.

Key Findings

This popular retirement state recorded the highest rate of reported scams involving older Americans. Arizona led the analysis with seven reports involving residents age 60 and older per 1,000 people in that age group. Delaware and Colorado followed in the rankings.
North Dakota recorded the lowest rate of reported scams involving older Americans. With just three reports involving residents age 60 and older for every 1,000 people in that age group, North Dakota had the fewest reported incidents in the analysis.
Business imposter scams were the most commonly reported scam type involving older Americans in most states. Among the 10 most common scam types, older Americans most often reported business imposter scams in every state except Alaska, Iowa, Maryland, South Dakota, Vermont and West Virginia. In those states, residents most often reported government imposter scams.
Older Americans report job fraud and online shopping fraud less often than younger groups. Nationwide, reports involving older Americans were less likely than those involving younger age groups to cite either scam type.

States Where Older Americans are Targeted for Financial Fraud

Arizona
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 7.0
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 12%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Delaware
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 6.9
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 10%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Colorado
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 6.8
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Washington
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 6.4
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 14%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
New Mexico
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 6.3
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 16%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Alaska
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 6.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Government imposters
Maryland
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.9
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 8%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Government imposters
Nevada
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.8
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 8%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Oregon
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.7
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 14%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Vermont
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.5
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 20%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Government imposters
Utah
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.4
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 12%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Florida
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.2
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 7%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Hawaii
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 14%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
New Hampshire
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 15%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
South Carolina
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Virginia
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 5.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Montana
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.9
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 17%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Wyoming
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.9
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 14%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
California
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.8
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Georgia
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.8
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 5%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Idaho
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.8
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 14%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Alabama
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.6
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 8%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Nebraska
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.6
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Connecticut
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.5
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Maine
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.5
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 16%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
North Carolina
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.5
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 8%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Rhode Island
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.5
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 11%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Indiana
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.4
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 10%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Minnesota
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.4
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Kansas
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.3
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Massachusetts
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.3
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 10%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
New Jersey
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.3
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 7%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Texas
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.3
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 6%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Missouri
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.2
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Tennessee
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.2
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Wisconsin
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.2
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Illinois
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 7%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Michigan
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 9%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Ohio
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 10%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Pennsylvania
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 8%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Arkansas
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.0
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 10%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
New York
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.0
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 7%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Oklahoma
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 4.0
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 11%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Kentucky
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.9
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 12%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
South Dakota
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.8
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 14%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Government imposters
Mississippi
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.7
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 7%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Louisiana
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.6
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 6%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters
Iowa
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.5
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Government imposters
West Virginia
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.1
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 13%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Government imposters
North Dakota
• Fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000: 3.0
• Share of all fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older: 10%
• Top scam type affecting victims ages 60 and older: Business imposters

Methodology

This analysis examined fraud reports submitted to the Federal Trade Commission in 2024, the most recent year for which data was available. To evaluate where older Americans may be most frequently targeted, the number of fraud reports involving victims ages 60 and older per 1,000 residents in that age group in each of the 50 states was calculated. Population estimates for residents ages 60 and older were drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2024 state population estimates. In addition to this primary rate, the share of all fraud reports in each state involving victims age 60 and older was calculated to provide additional context. States were ranked based on the rate of reports per 1,000 residents age 60 and older, and the most commonly reported scam type affecting that age group in each state was identified using FTC complaint categorization data. Because FTC data reflects reported incidents rather than all instances of fraud, actual fraud levels may be higher than reported totals, and differences in reporting behavior may influence comparisons. Source data providers are not affiliated with, and do not endorse or sponsor, this study or its findings.

Photo credit: ©iStock.com/Butsaya

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Where Seniors Are Targeted by Scams — 2026 Study

Accountant accused of stealing $13,500 from elderly client with cognitive decline

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Mon, 11 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Story by Jake Jordan

A Marion County accountant is charged with serious fraud after investigators claim she stole money from clients, including an elderly woman with cognitive decline.

Cara Lee Priess, age 55, was taken into custody on May 5, 2026, by the Ocala Police Department based on a warrant from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. She faces charges of organized fraud, grand theft, and elderly exploitation.

Investigators say the case began in 2024, when the owner of GoldMark Farm reported suspicious payments to Priess, who had been hired to handle the farm’s bills and taxes.

According to deputies, the farm owner discovered large invoices for accounting “deep dives” that were never requested. The invoices claimed 688 hours of work and totaled nearly $190,000.

Detectives discovered payments made to Priess that were reportedly not correctly recorded in the farm’s accounting records.

Months later, investigators uncovered another case involving an 89-year-old woman who trusted Priess as her accountant.

Authorities state that Priess issued checks to herself from the victim’s account and forged her signature. Detectives reported that the elderly victim, who has cognitive impairments, told them she would pay whatever Priess requested.

Records showed about $13,500 in fraudulent checks were deposited into Priess’ account, investigators said.

During interviews, Priess claimed she possessed documents verifying the transactions’ legitimacy. However, investigators state she never handed over the records and ultimately ceased communication with law enforcement.

After reviewing financial records and subpoenas, detectives secured an arrest warrant in April 2026.

Full Article & Source:
Accountant accused of stealing $13,500 from elderly client with cognitive decline

The Media’s Role in Exposing Elder Abuse: Why Awareness Must Lead to Accountability

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Mon, 11 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

"The media has always played a pivotal role in shaping society, but its responsibility extends beyond informing it must also protect, advocate, and hold systems accountable."

By: Sponsored Post of Barrett Media

In an age where media shapes public perception and drives social accountability, its role in uncovering critical issues cannot be overstated. One such issue often hidden behind closed doors is elder abuse in nursing homes. Investigative journalism, local reporting, and digital media platforms have become powerful tools in exposing these injustices and giving a voice to vulnerable populations. For families seeking justice, resources like a Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer can be essential, but awareness often begins with what the media chooses to spotlight.

The Silent Crisis in Nursing Homes

Elder abuse remains significantly underreported. According to global estimates, millions of older adults experience some form of neglect, physical harm, or emotional abuse each year. Yet, due to fear, cognitive decline, or lack of access to reporting channels, many cases never reach authorities.

This is where media outlets, especially those focused on community storytelling and investigative reporting step in. By bringing these stories to light, journalists not only inform the public but also pressure institutions to act responsibly.

How Media Coverage Drives Change

Historically, some of the most impactful reforms in healthcare and senior living have followed extensive media coverage. When local or national outlets highlight patterns of neglect or systemic failures, it often leads to:

Government investigations
Policy changes and stricter regulations
Increased funding for oversight
Greater public awareness and advocacy

The media doesn’t just report, it creates momentum. A well-researched feature or exposé can lead to real-world consequences for negligent facilities.

The Responsibility of Modern Media Platforms

With the rise of digital media, the speed and reach of information have expanded dramatically. Platforms like podcasts, online publications, and social media channels now complement traditional journalism.

For a site like Barrett Media, which understands the evolving media landscape, there’s an opportunity to emphasize how broadcasters, content creators, and journalists can use their platforms responsibly. Covering elder abuse is not just about reporting facts it’s about storytelling with purpose, sensitivity, and accuracy.

Ethical Storytelling and Victim Protection

Reporting on nursing home abuse requires a delicate balance. Journalists must ensure that:

Victims’ identities are protected when necessary
Information is verified and not sensationalized
Families are approached with empathy
Legal processes are respected

Ethical storytelling builds trust and ensures that the focus remains on justice rather than exploitation.

Legal Support and Media Synergy

While media exposure brings awareness, legal action brings accountability. Families often turn to professionals like a Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer to pursue justice once abuse is uncovered.

Interestingly, media coverage can strengthen legal cases by:

Documenting patterns of negligence
Encouraging whistleblowers to come forward
Providing publicly available evidence
Highlighting regulatory failures

This synergy between media and legal advocacy creates a powerful framework for change.

The Role of Local Journalism

Local media outlets are often the first to report on incidents within communities. Their proximity allows for deeper investigation and stronger connections with affected families.

However, local journalism has faced funding challenges in recent years. Supporting these outlets is crucial because they play a frontline role in identifying issues like nursing home abuse before they escalate.

Digital Storytelling and Audience Engagement

Today’s audiences consume content differently. Interactive storytelling, video reports, and social media threads can amplify the reach of important issues.

For example:

Short-form videos can quickly highlight key concerns
Podcasts can explore survivor stories in depth
Data journalism can reveal systemic patterns

These formats make complex issues more accessible and engaging, ensuring that the message reaches a broader audience.

Challenges in Reporting Elder Abuse

Despite its importance, covering elder abuse comes with obstacles:

Limited access to facilities
Legal restrictions and privacy laws
Fear of retaliation among staff or victims
Difficulty in verifying claims

Journalists must navigate these challenges carefully while maintaining integrity and accuracy.

Why This Topic Matters for Media Professionals

For media professionals and platforms like Barrett Media, covering topics like nursing home abuse aligns with a broader mission using media as a force for good.

This type of reporting:

Builds credibility and trust with audiences
Demonstrates social responsibility
Encourages meaningful conversations
Positions media outlets as advocates for change

It’s not just about content it’s about impact.

Taking Action Beyond Awareness

Awareness is only the first step. Readers, listeners, and viewers who encounter stories about elder abuse should feel empowered to act. This can include:

Reporting suspected abuse
Supporting advocacy organizations
Engaging in community discussions
Seeking legal help when necessary

In many cases, connecting with a Mount Pleasant Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer can help families understand their rights and pursue justice effectively.

Conclusion

The media has always played a pivotal role in shaping society, but its responsibility extends beyond informing it must also protect, advocate, and hold systems accountable. By shedding light on nursing home abuse, media professionals can drive real change, ensuring that vulnerable populations are not forgotten.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, the commitment to ethical, impactful storytelling must remain constant. Because when the media speaks up, it doesn’t just tell a story it can change lives.

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The Media’s Role in Exposing Elder Abuse: Why Awareness Must Lead to Accountability

'Teach them a lesson': Woman left incapacitated family members covered in their own waste as 'punishment,' police say

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sun, 10 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

by Jerry Lambe

A 51-year-old woman in Indiana is accused of forcing her elderly father and developmentally delayed brother to live in "overwhelming" squalor, allegedly leaving the victims covered in their own waste because she wanted to "teach them a lesson" about hygiene.

Kathryn Ann Payton, of Evansville, is charged with two counts of neglect of a dependent. Following her arrest and booking, Payton posted bond and has since been released from detention, court records show.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by Law&Crime, the harrowing conditions inside the apartment were only discovered after a pest control company attempted to conduct a routine quarterly treatment on May 1. When the technician encountered a resident who appeared unwell and was physically covered in waste, the apartment complex manager contacted police for a welfare check.

Upon arrival, responding officers encountered a scene described as "overwhelming to the point that it caused nausea." Inside the residence, police located Payton's father, a "medically frail" man suffering from cognitive decline, and her brother, who is developmentally delayed and suffers from multiple physical ailments.

Both men were reportedly found "covered in urine and feces" with clothing and bedding that was "extremely soiled." Investigators noted that feces — consistent with both human and animal waste — was found on the floors, on the furniture where the men sat, and even on a pillow where the father slept.

Medical personnel who arrived on the scene documented a severe lack of care that had persisted for an extended period. One of the men was found in a recliner with a "labored, hacking cough" and clothing soaked in waste "down to the knees," and he appeared to have remained in that state for several days. His oxygen levels were recorded at a dangerously low 87%.

The other man, located in a back bedroom, was unable to stand without assistance and was found with "open sores on his body" and a "rattling cough."

When questioned by authorities, Payton identified herself as the primary caregiver for both men. She initially claimed she did not know why they had not cleaned themselves and stated she had checked on them earlier in the day. However, her narrative reportedly shifted as she admitted she was fully aware of the unsanitary conditions and the fact that the men were living in their own waste.

Payton allegedly told investigators that because the two men would not clean themselves, she "showed them" by removing their television and Amazon Fire Stick so they could not watch TV. She further admitted to not helping in order to "teach them a lesson," according to statements provided by emergency medical technicians included in the affidavit.

The neglect reportedly extended to their basic medical needs as well. Despite the rattling cough and weakened state of her brother, Payton allegedly told police that he had been sick for approximately a week but had not been taken to a doctor. She reportedly told investigators that if he chose not to go to a physician, "he would just sit with it."

The investigation also apparently revealed a stark disparity in living conditions. While Payton's father and brother were confined to the filth of the apartment, authorities discovered that Payton was residing in a separate home in the 600 block of Kingswood Drive —a residence actually owned by her father. The apartment manager also informed police they were unaware the brother was even residing in the Lincoln Avenue unit.

Based on the observations at the scene, investigators determined that both men lacked the "mental or physical ability to care for themselves," rendering Payton's "punishment" of the cognitively impaired men both ineffective and dangerous. The affidavit concludes that Payton "knowingly allowed both individuals to remain in a condition where they were covered in feces and urine for an extended period of time," creating an "imminent danger to their life and well-being."

Both victims were transported to Deaconess Gateway Hospital for emergency medical treatment and stabilization. Doctors subsequently admitted both men for further care due to their "medically compromised" states.

Payton's next court appearance has not yet been finalized. The investigation into the extent of the neglect remains ongoing.

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'Teach them a lesson': Woman left incapacitated family members covered in their own waste as 'punishment,' police say

From Brain Injury to Graduation Marshal: Matt Beth’s Inspiring Story of Recovery, Success

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sun, 10 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

(Auburn University) – Ten years after sustaining a traumatic brain injury that left him without the ability to speak, walk or use the left side of his body, Matt Beth will be graduating with his doctoral degree from Auburn University’s College of Education and has been chosen to represent the Graduate School as its student marshal.

Beth, who uses a wheelchair and a computer-assisted device to speak, defied all odds – and doctors’ expectations – when he enrolled in college at Auburn, a feat that his medical team said would be impossible.

After his injury, choosing Auburn University was largely influenced by geographic convenience, but he said it also stood out as a compelling choice when he was initially deciding where to pursue a college education. CONTINUE

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From Brain Injury to Graduation Marshal: Matt Beth’s Inspiring Story of Recovery, Success

House, Senate pass law amending probate court procedures

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sat, 09 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

by Alex Appel

A probate bill passed through both the House of Representatives and Senate on Tuesday, May 5. The bill, SB 400, or “An Act Concerning Probate Court Operations,” changes procedures for involuntary conservatorship hearings and expands the training requirements for new judges.

A conservatorship is a legal process in which a person is appointed to manage the financial or personal affairs of an adult.

The bill specifies that every party involved in a hearing for an involuntary conservatorship must be given at least ten days’ notice before a hearing.

Judge Beverly Streit, the probate court administrator for Connecticut, sent a written testimony for a public hearing.

“We appreciate the support of the Committee in clarifying the timing for conservatorship hearings,” Streit wrote. “The language of the bill seeks to more plainly state that notice of the hearing is sent to the parties not less than ten days before the hearing, and the hearing itself must be held not more than thirty days after receipt of the petition. In practice, this has always been a consistent application of the statute. The clarification proposed provides the same consistent approach to articulating the timing of notice and hearings.”

In her testimony, Streit proposed a minor tweak to language for technical purposes—which was made—but otherwise supported the bill. Her proposed change was implemented in the final version of the bill.

Usually, an adult enters a conservatorship if they are incapable of handling their own affairs, either due to age or various medical conditions. In many cases, a person enters a conservatorship voluntarily.

Most of the time, conservatorships are managed by family members. However, there are cases when a probate judge will appoint an attorney to manage a person’s affairs if they have no adult around them, or if they determine that the person’s current conservator should not have that responsibility.

For example, Inside Investigator found one case in the Norwalk Probate Court District where a man voluntarily entered a conservatorship and asked that Rachel Menti, a woman he was not related to, be his conservator. Later, he was admitted to a hospital and Menti allegedly lied and told staff that she was his daughter. After that, the man’s actual relatives filed a complaint with the probate court, and she was removed as his conservator. Then the judge assigned Kristin Exner to be his conservator.

Exner herself has a history of alleged misconduct, including selling a house owned by one of her conservatees to a man with whom she co-owned a real estate company. This transaction came to light in a lawsuit against her.

SB 400 would also allow probate court administrators to audit how a conservator manages the financial affairs of an estate. Previously, they were only able to monitor a conservator’s account.

The bill also adds a mentorship component to training for new judges, allows someone who is under a federal firearms disability restriction and lives outside Connecticut to petition the state to regain their firearm rights if they were removed because of an in-state adjudication or commitment, expands the jurisdiction of probate courts to include name changes for minors, and requires appeals of matters concerning a minor’s guardian or emancipation to be filed in the Superior Court for Juvenile Matters.

The rest of the bill proposes minor, often technical, changes to the operation of probate courts. It also dissolves a working group that was established by a 2025 law to make recommendations on guardian proceedings, policies, and procedures.

Only five members of the House of Representatives were absent or did not vote for the bill. Other than them, every state legislator voted in favor of the bill. If it is signed by Gov. Ned Lamont, every part of the bill will take effect on October 1, 2026, except for the firearms disability provision, which will be implemented on January 1, 2027.

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House, Senate pass law amending probate court procedures

Prosecutor says grandson drained grandmother’s $500K life savings, leaving her on food stamps

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sat, 09 May 2026 05:28:00 +0000

By MyNorthwest.com Staff

A King County man was sentenced to 24 months in prison after a jury found him guilty of stealing nearly half a million dollars from his elderly grandmother, who has dementia and is now surviving on food stamps.

Senior Deputy Prosecutor Karissa Taylor, who handled the case for the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, said the defendant manipulated his grandmother into surrendering her entire individual retirement account through a campaign of deception.

“By way of manipulation and deception, he convinced his grandmother to give her entire life savings, all of her IRA that she had saved her entire life,” Taylor told “Seattle’s Morning News.” “By the time the victim’s son discovered the theft, she had less than $50 left to her name and is now on food stamps.”

Grandson exploited decades of trust to drain grandmother’s entire life savings

The victim, now nearly 91, had a close relationship with her grandson, who had lived with her intermittently due to instability in his own family. She had provided him with financial support for years, hoping to help him gain independence.

“The sad part of this case is that the victim and the defendant were very, very close,” Taylor said. “He took advantage of that trust and the relationship that they had to convince her to give him all of his money.”

The theft was discovered when the woman’s son noticed she was distraught. She told him she had no money left. He called her financial institution, confirmed the accounts had been drained, and contacted Seattle Police.

Investigators determined the stolen funds were spent on fast food, gasoline, car parts, all-terrain vehicles the defendant was building, mortgage payments, and other expenses. None of the money is recoverable.

“That money is gone forever,” Taylor said.

Families urged to plan ahead as prosecutor warns manipulation, theft are common

Seattle Police conducted the investigation, which led prosecutors to charge the defendant with 11 counts of felony theft. A jury convicted him on six counts. The court also found a major economic offense aggravator and an abuse of trust aggravator, adding 12 months to the standard sentencing range of 14 to 18 months.

Prosecutors sought the maximum sentence of 30 months. The judge imposed 24 months. The court will order restitution, though Taylor acknowledged none of the original funds remain.

Taylor urged families to take preventive steps against elder financial exploitation.

“Advocate for having a financial advisor who is aware of your finances and is aware of what your expectations are with your money,” Taylor said. “Have those same conversations with your family so they know what the intent is with regards to your money.”

She also recommended that families discuss power of attorney designations and plan carefully for when a loved one may need assistance managing finances.

“Ultimately, people can take advantage of other people through manipulation or deception or outright theft,” Taylor said. “We know these things happen.”

This story was originally posted on MyNorthwest.com

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Prosecutor says grandson drained grandmother’s $500K life savings, leaving her on food stamps

Scammer stole $350,000 from Manatee County senior with dementia, deputies say

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Fri, 08 May 2026 06:30:00 +0000

By Michael Moore Jr.

A man entrusted with managing a woman’s finances after she developed dementia is accused of spending more than $350,000 on himself, investigators say.

Richard James Meyers, 64, faces a charge of exploitation of an elderly person or disabled adult involving $50,000 or more following an investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, court records show.

An attorney representing Meyers did not immediately respond to the Bradenton Herald’s request for comment.

Investigators say Meyers abused his authority as the woman’s power of attorney, siphoning off money for personal expenses while failing to pay for her care.

The woman developed dementia nearly 10 years ago and granted Meyers control over her finances, according to court records. Over the next several years, detectives allege he transferred money from a shared account into his own and spent it on himself.

A forensic review of bank records identified hundreds of thousands of dollars in spending that did not benefit the woman, including tens of thousands of dollars on electronics, groceries, rent, restaurants and entertainment, according to an arrest report.

Man stole $350K from Manatee woman, deputies say

Investigators said the purchases included more than $3,000 at Mixon Fruit Farm, nearly $3,000 at Ashley Furniture, charges at Firestone and a gold and diamond retailer.

The spending also included nearly $17,000 at a Kia dealership for a vehicle purchase, nearly $3,000 on a golf cart, more than $12,000 in wedding expenses, $13,000 in pet-related costs and more than $10,000 in payments to “son and wife,” according to an arrest report.

Detectives said Meyers allegedly moved at least $39,000 directly into his personal account and frequently drained the joint account down to only a few hundred dollars.

While using the money for his own expenses, investigators say Meyers failed to pay for the woman’s medical and living needs. The neglect led to lawsuits from a home care provider and a nurse who were not paid for services, court records show.

Investigators also allege Meyers did not file the woman’s federal tax returns for several years despite being responsible for her finances.

The investigation began more than a year after the woman died, when her daughter reported suspected financial abuse, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office said.

Deputies arrested Meyers on April 29. He later posted a $25,000 bond and was released from the Manatee County jail, court records show. He has pleaded not guilty and requested a jury trial.

Meyers is scheduled to appear in Manatee County court for arraignment on June 12, according to court records.

Records show Meyers was in Alabama at the time of his arrest and later returned to Manatee County to face the charge.

Seniors targeted in Bradenton-area scams

Meyers’ case comes as local officials warn that financial crimes targeting older adults are a growing concern.

Investigators with the Bradenton Police Department have described elder fraud as an “epidemic,” with victims often losing their life savings to scams and financial exploitation. Police say many cases go unreported, as victims can feel embarrassed or reluctant to come forward.

Under Florida law, exploitation of an elderly person involving $50,000 or more is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

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Scammer stole $350,000 from Manatee County senior with dementia, deputies say

Women charged after alleged elder exploitation began at Union County grocery store

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Fri, 08 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

By Connor Lomis

MONROE, N.C. (WBTV) - Two women were charged with elder exploitation on Tuesday after authorities said they coerced a man at a grocery store in Union County.

Records show Sylvia Marks and Brittany Nicholas were charged with exploitation of an elder and conspiracy to commit a felony.

Sylvia Marks (left), Brittany Nicholas (right)(Courtesy: Union County Sheriff's Office)

Marks was issued a $501,000 bond and was also charged with:

Misdemeanor larceny
Obtaining property by false pretenses
Resisting, delaying, or obstructing

Nicholas was issued a $400,000 secured bond and was also charged with:

Assault
Resisting, delaying, or obstructing

Extortion allegedly began at local grocery store, deputies say

The extortion of the elderly man reportedly began at a local grocery store, though the store’s name and location were not specified.

Deputies said Marks approached the man and asked if he remembered her, allegedly concealing her identity by telling him her name was Anna. They said she convinced him they knew each other and, over the next several weeks, persuaded him to let her move into his home. Investigators said Marks later invited Nicholas to move in as well, falsely presenting Nicholas as her daughter.

The man reported that he sent about $25,000 to Marks and Nicholas and noticed several items missing from his home. Detectives said the man appeared to have been assaulted by Nicholas a few days earlier, citing bruising on his arm.

Deputies said they were initially called to the man’s home for a trespassing complaint after Marks and Nicholas were allegedly asked to leave “multiple times” but refused.

During the investigation, the sheriff said investigators learned the situation was not isolated, as another victim who lived just miles away was also targeted using the same tactics.

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Women charged after alleged elder exploitation began at Union County grocery store

Suburban Chicago man loses $69,000 to scammer using AI-generated U.S. Marshals badge

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Thu, 07 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

by Carol Thompson, Dorothy Tucker

First you get a call from a company you know well, saying a number of product purchases are connected with your name and your bank account. Then someone from a federal law enforcement agency gets on the phone and warns you your account is in danger and scammers are after your money. This person tells you there is a way for you to protect yourself. But you must hurry.

That's the call and the convincing pitch a suburban Chicago man received in March. The person on the other end of the line gave his name and even texted a photo of himself holding his U.S. Marshals badge to prove he was the real thing.

Now, the victim is out $69,000 — a big chunk of his cash savings — and we're asking the experts what can be done to prevent this type of fraud in the future?

The call and the pitch

The man who shared his story with CBS News Chicago Investigators is too embarrassed to reveal his face or use his name, but his son Tony helped explain what happened.

He said his father was watching television when he got a phone call. The caller ID said "Apple," but Tony said it was actually an "imposter that was acting like Apple."

"They had asked him about some fraudulent charges they noticed on his account," Tony said. "And they said, it looks like your account's been compromised."

Tony's father said he was given an urgent warning from the woman on the phone, who told him that if he wanted to protect "your property, your money and everything," then she'd transfer him over to speak to a man "who works for the U.S. government."

Tony said his father then started speaking with another person, a man, who told him, "I don't want you [to] think that I'm a scammer. I'll send you the proof that I am not."

The proof was a texted photo. It showed the name of the man he thought he was speaking with, Silas V. Darden, U.S. Marshal, on an official-looking identification badge.

"He says, go to the bank. I'll give you the number to transfer the dough," Tony's father said.

He thought the two new accounts were set up in his name and that he was transferring the money to himself to protect his savings.

So he went to a Bank of America branch in Woodridge, not his usual branch, because that one was too busy. He said he would have to wait too long. He thought he had to act fast.

In Woodridge, he asked a bank officer to transfer $24,000 to one of the accounts at Wells Fargo. He signed a digital waiver and the transfer went through.

After several more phone calls with the man he believed to be a U.S. Marshal, a few days later, he went back to the same Bank of America and this time transferred $45,000 to a second Wells Fargo account. A branch manager had to sign off on that transaction. It also went through.

That's when he decided to go to a nearby Wells Fargo to make sure his money was safe, asking them to verify if it was in his name or not.

Instead, he found out that neither account was in his name and both accounts had been closed. His $69,000 was gone.

"For him, it's more than 40% of his total lifetime cash liquid savings," said Tony.

The scam

How was Tony's father convinced to make these wire transfers?

After he heard about what happened, the first thing Tony did was search online for Silas V. Darden. That name appears in official agency press releases, identifying Darden as a deputy director. A real person.

But, when CBS News Chicago contacted the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), we were told Darden left the USMS a couple of years ago. And, that photo texted to Tony's father?

"Oh, that was completely generated by AI," said Brady McCarron, Deputy Chief in the Office of Public Affairs for the USMS. It was not the real Darden.

McCarron says no one in federal law enforcement would ever do what this scammer did.

"Law enforcement will never call you. We will never ask for any money," he said.

According to FBI Internet Crime Complaint (IC3) data, government impersonation scams were the seventh largest crime type reported, with more than 34,000 in 2025, nearly double the number reported the year before. In total, nearly $798 million was lost in 2025, an increase of 97% from 2024.

"They believe the phone number's real. They believe the photo is real," said McCarron.

And all age groups can be convinced to do what the scammer says, especially if they think they're speaking with a federal agent. McCarron said he's seen the scam work on college students, married couples, professionals, senior citizens and more.

In 2025 more than 17,000 complaints of government impersonation scams were filed for people ages 30 to 59. Those groups lost more than $221 million.

More than 8,600 scams were reported by people aged 60 and older. They lost just over $413 million.

The FBI has also started reporting the number of complaints of specific types of scams that use artificial intelligence, or AI.

McCarron said generative AI use has become more prevalent recently, especially with government impersonation scams.

"They're now using pictures, those pictures are created by AI. Don't fall for them," he said.

Suggestions and solutions

After inquiries by CBS News Chicago Investigators, Tony said he has been in contact with both Bank of America and Wells Fargo concerning his father's case. He has also filed reports with local police, the Federal Trade Commission and the Illinois Attorney General concerning the fraud.

Wells Fargo sent CBS News Chicago a statement, writing, "Anytime we identify or are alerted to potential fraudulent or scam activity involving any account, we investigate and take swift and appropriate action, including, when warranted, the closure of accounts and alerting or working with the appropriate authorities to help combat fraudsters."

And, Bank of America sent this in a statement, writing ""We recognize the emotional toll and hardship faced by anyone who becomes a victim of a scam. We prioritize client protection and take action to mitigate risk to clients from scams, including proactively warning clients during these transactions. Unfortunately, clients sometimes ignore our warnings and insist on completing the transactions. To be clear, the root of the problem is criminals who prey on hardworking Americans, and we will continue to work closely with government and law enforcement to hold them accountable."

Both financial institutions provide online resources to help their customers protect themselves. You can visit these pages from Bank of America and Wells Fargo to find that information.

Neither bank could tell CBS News Chicago anything specific to Tony's father's case because of financial privacy laws.

But there's one piece of advice security experts say is critical to staying safe. You should ask to be added to your loved one's account as a Trusted Contact so you can learn of potentially suspicious transaction requests before any money transfers or withdrawals take place.

Additional protections are part of an Illinois bill introduced in the House of Representatives in February. HB4767 would expand the Adult Protective Services Act to cover all financial institutions, including banks and credit unions. The changes allow any bank to place a hold on the accounts of adults with disabilities or older adults, if an employee suspects financial exploitation. The hold would be limited to a maximum number of days and mandate the institutions notify law enforcement if fraud is involved.

The bill currently sits in the House Rules Committee.

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Suburban Chicago man loses $69,000 to scammer using AI-generated U.S. Marshals badge

House unanimously passes Salisbury bill to improve guardianship appointment process

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Wed, 06 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Would expand notice of proceedings to ensure selection of best possible guardian

Rep. Abigail Salisbury May 5, 2026 | 6:26 AM

HARRISBURG, May 5 – The Pennsylvania House on Monday unanimously passed legislation introduced by state Rep. Abigail Salisbury that would improve the guardianship appointment process by expanding the list of individuals entitled to receive notice of the proceedings.

Salisbury said she introduced H.B. 2106 in response to concerns that the current system is failing some of the most vulnerable Pennsylvanians.

“When someone is unable to make key decisions about their own welfare and the court determines that a guardian is needed, the inquiry turns to finding the best person for the job,” Salisbury said. “Unfortunately, guardianship case documents are not public records in Pennsylvania, and hearings are not widely publicized. As a result, caring, competent individuals who might be the best choice never step forward because they were never made aware of the proceedings.

“My bill would fix that by expanding the list of people who are entitled to receive notice of a guardianship petition and hearing. Doing so would bring greater transparency to the process and help ensure that all interested parties have a chance to advocate for and protect the best interests of a loved one who can no longer advocate for themselves.”

Salisbury said the legislation was inspired by constituent Susan Colker, who raised concerns that a lack of adequate notice is leaving some of the most vulnerable people without the care and protection they require.

“The issue for me has been people being left alone—especially incapacitated people—when there are people who really care for them and want to be there for them, but weren’t apprised of their situation,” Colker said.

The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration.

Source:
House unanimously passes Salisbury bill to improve guardianship appointment process

Man convicted of elder abuse in Scott County to serve next two decades in prison

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Wed, 06 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

Lisa Kuwamura, a former account clerk for the Kauai Sheriff Division, admitted to manipulating computer records to receive unearned compensation.(HNN)

By Jake Pietrasz

SCOTT COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) - A man convicted of elder abuse in Scott County will be spending the next two decades in prison.

On April 27, Judge Zachary Walden sentenced Jesse William Slaven to a total combined sentence of 20 years in prison.

District Attorney General Jared Effler said following a trial on Feb. 13, a jury found Slaven guilty of three counts of aggravated abuse of an elderly person and one count of assault upon a law enforcement officer.

No additional information was released.

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Man convicted of elder abuse in Scott County to serve next two decades in prison

Restrictions on private guardianship of vulnerable adults advance in Springfield

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Tue, 05 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

by Christy Gutowski

After months of debate, legislation inspired by a Tribune investigation into some Chicago-area hospitals’ questionable use of the state’s guardianship system has advanced from the Illinois House as supporters seek to strengthen court oversight and other protections for the rights of vulnerable adults.

Earlier versions of the bill would have banned the appointment of private professional guardians in cases where a hospital, nursing home or similar institution has asked a judge to rule that a person needs court-ordered oversight because he or she is unable to make medical, financial and other personal decisions.

The Tribune’s investigation, published in November, revealed that when the patients in question owned property or other financial assets, hospitals typically recommended that a private guardianship organization rather than a county public guardian be put in charge of their lives. Paying for that organization’s work, along with fees billed by lawyers on the case, sometimes drained people’s savings at a rapid pace, the Tribune found.

But the proposal to bar private guardians completely drew objections from hospitals and others who argued it would force some patients to remain hospitalized beyond medical necessity. The amended bill would allow private guardianship appointments but enact requirements aimed at giving probate court judges more authority to hold the entities accountable.

The measure has yet to gain the approval of a longtime opponent, the Illinois Health and Hospital Association, but after advancing to the Senate on a recent 81-28 vote in the House it has survived longer than earlier attempts and has turned several past opponents into supporters.

In its investigation, the Tribune found that Chicago-area hospitals had initiated hundreds of guardianship petitions in an 18-month period. Hospital representatives said the petitions were intended to protect incapacitated patients who are too disabled to make their own decisions and who have no family or friends willing or able to take charge.

But the Tribune found many cases where the petitions eased the way for hospitals to discharge patients to subpar nursing homes, sometimes bypassing family members who disagreed with the hospital’s choice or were slow to make other arrangements.

The hospital association also had expressed opposition to similar legislation introduced in previous sessions by former state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, now a judge. State Rep. Marti Deuter, an Elmhurst Democrat, worked with AARP Illinois on the latest bill, which picked up 14 other sponsors in the House before the April 16 vote.

After months of discussions with opponents, supporters say the amended version of Deuter’s bill represents a compromise but still would set important safeguards around private guardianship appointments.

For example, the bill would require employees of private guardians to undergo criminal background checks every five years and get the education necessary for national certification. And a private guardian corporation would have to submit to annual independent audits if it manages more than $1 million in assets.

The bill also seeks to prohibit private guardians from having financial ties to other for-profit entities involved in the person’s case and would give the court more information through annual budgets and fee schedules.

Also, in certain cases where a private entity is seeking to pass the case to a public guardian as successor, which typically happens when the estate is running out of money, a 120-day minimum notice to the court would be required.

The hospital association still objects to the part of the bill that would require the private guardian to meet with the hospital patient prior to accepting the appointment, citing concerns that such a requirement may slow the process as well as timing issues concerning medical consent.

To address the possibility that a person may be too incapacitated to meet with the guardian or be unwilling to meet, supporters changed the bill to specify that if the meeting is “not reasonably possible” the prospective private guardian must certify in court that “they will meet with the respondent as soon as feasible after the appointment.”

In response to Tribune questions, a spokesperson for the hospital association said the organization will continue working with the bill’s sponsors on the language.

“IHA supports the goal of strengthening existing protections in the guardianship statute and is committed to working through any remaining unintended consequences of the proposed legislation on patients, like the previously mentioned delays in obtaining timely consent for treatment that directly impacts patient outcomes,” Paris Ervin said in a statement.

Cook County Public Guardian Charles Golbert, whose staff oversees the cases of more than 600 adults under guardianship and has helped champion the bill, said face-to-face meetings are standard practice in his office prior to appointment and are crucial to properly assessing the person’s needs.

He said more than 20% of all cases in his office involve people under a limited guardianship that allows the person some control over their life. In the Tribune’s 18-month review, only seven of the hospital-initiated guardianships, or roughly 2%, were limited rather than full guardianships.

“That’s scandalous in my mind,” Golbert said, “and that’s what happens when guardians accept appointments with people who they have never met.”

Another compromise supporters made to advance the legislation was deleting language that would have temporarily prevented private guardians from collecting court-approved fees if it meant the person had to sell their home for nonmedical reasons. Supporters said the proposal was met with skepticism by lawmakers who recognize the private entities do not have taxpayer funding like their public counterparts and need to be paid for their services.

Under the latest version of the bill, fees may be collected but the private guardian would be required to notify the court as soon as “it estimates the estate of the person with a disability can no longer afford the services” or “if the sale of (the person’s) residence would be required for the continued services” within 36 months.

The hope is the court would step in at that point to either reduce fees or appoint a public guardian, such as Golbert, who said his office delays fee collection when doing so allows a person to remain in their home.

Besides the hospital association, the bill had faced opposition initially from other important voices, including the Catholic Conference of Illinois, which runs a private guardianship program for elderly people that receives hospital referrals. The group dropped its opposition after the bill recognized a place for private guardianships, said Marilou Gervacio, director of social services/social justice.

The vast majority of the hospital guardianship petitions reviewed for the Tribune’s investigation involved people with little money who were placed with the Office of State Guardian at the hospitals’ expense, rather than under a private guardian or a county public guardian like Golbert.

The Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, which operates the state guardian’s office, said it initially opposed the bill because of a provision that would have required the office to receive notice if a facility determines that someone may need a guardian.

“That provision would have created an administrative obligation without a clear purpose or authority to act, and no additional resources to manage the volume of notices,” the commission said in a statement. The language was removed in the amended version of the bill.

Despite the compromises, supporters say the legislation still would go a long way toward improving the system. Other changes would require private guardians to attest to the court that their efforts to locate family or friends were exhausted prior to appointment. And the petition would need to name the private entity’s president, director or other corporate officer as the preferred guardian, rather than a business name, with the goal of encouraging more personal responsibility.

Besides Golbert and AARP Illinois, other backers include the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

“The bill moves Illinois closer to a system that respects independence, protects savings and prioritizes dignity for older adults,” Philippe Largent, AARP Illinois’ state director, said in a statement.

Added Golbert: “These are really commonsense types of safeguards and protections for truly our most vulnerable people — we are talking about people with advanced dementias — who don’t know what’s going on and don’t understand what’s happening to them or who either have no family or have family that is financially exploitative or otherwise unavailable. These guardrails are just critical for our most vulnerable people.”

Sen. Michael Halpin, a Rock Island Democrat, has picked up the bill in the Senate. The spring legislative session is scheduled to adjourn May 31.

Full Article & Source:
Restrictions on private guardianship of vulnerable adults advance in Springfield

Tristan Thompson files for conservatorship over 19-year-old brother Amari

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Tue, 05 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

by Antoinette Bueno

Tristan Thompson has filed for conservatorship over his younger brother, Amari.

The NBA athlete, 35, filed to serve as Amari’s limited conservator on Monday, according to documents obtained by Page Six.

Per the docs, Amari, 19, is “unable to properly provide for his personal needs for physical health, food, clothing or shelter,” and “suffers from an intellectual disability and developmental delay.”

The docs also note Amari is “unable to manage his financial resources or to resist fraud or undue influence.”

Amari, the docs state, is unable to comment on the selection of a conservator “due to his developmental delay and intellectual disability.”

Tristan Thompson filed for conservatorship over his 19-year-old brother, Amari, on Monday. The brothers are seen here in August 2019. Getty Images

Court docs obtained by Page Six state that Amari “suffers from an intellectual disability and developmental delay and is unable to take care of his personal needs.” Getty Images

Amari has LGS (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome), a severe form of childhood epilepsy that causes multiple types of seizures that can lead to permanent brain damage, resulting in learning difficulties and other disabilities, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

In February 2024, Tristan became Amari’s legal guardian following the death of their mother, Andrea. At the time, Amari was 17 years old.

Tristan claimed that their father, Trevor, had played no role in raising Amari since 2014, according to docs obtained by Page Six.

The judge ruled at the time that a reunion between Amari and Trevor was “not viable due to neglect, abandonment under California law.”

Amari has LGS [Lennox-Gastaut syndrome], a severe form of epilepsy.

Tristan became Amari’s legal guardian after their mother, Andrea, died in January 2023 from a heart attack. Tristan and Andrea are seen here in August 2019. Getty Images

Amari appeared on “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” when Tristan’s ex Khloé Kardashian became his primary caretaker in July 2025.

“He is severely disabled. … He can’t walk or talk,” she said on her “Khloé in Wonder Land” podcast.

Khloé explained that due to Tristan’s busy travel schedule in the NBA, she decided to keep Amari with her in Los Angeles.

“Amari has a handful of seizures a day with the type of epilepsy that he has,” she shared. “I have chosen to take care of him and be there for him because it’s not good that he travels.”

Khloé Kardashian stepped in to be Amari’s primary caregiver due to Tristan’s busy NBA traveling schedule, keeping him with her in Los Angeles. She’s seen here celebrating his 17th birthday in July 2023. khloekardashian/Instagram

Khloé has also said that it’s good for her children with Tristan — True, 8, and Tatum, 3 — as well as her nieces and nephews to be around Amari. The reality star is seen here with niece Dream, daughter True, Amari, and mom Kris Jenner. khloekardashian/Instagram

“California weather is so good for Amari and I just love having Amari be a part of my family,” she added.

The mother of two also noted that having Amari around is “important” for her children with Tristan — daughter True, 8, and son Tatum, 3 — as well as her kids, nieces and nephews, so they can be exposed to different types of people.

“I think it teaches everyone compassion, understanding,” she explained. “It opens up their minds to seeing, ‘Wow, Amari is disabled, sure, but he’s also just like us at the same time.'”

“We just want to provide Amari with the best, most beautiful life that we know how. And he deserves that,” she added, sharing that she hired two caregivers for Amari.

Full Article & Source:
Tristan Thompson files for conservatorship over 19-year-old brother Amari

Judge Denies Cher’s Bid for Emergency Conservatorship Over Son Elijah Blue Allman

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sun, 03 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

“She’s out here trying to help him, trying to make sure he’s in a position to become the person who she knows and loves,” Cher's lawyer told the court at a Friday hearing

by Nancy Dillon

A Los Angeles County judge has denied Cher’s emergency bid to have a court-appointed conservator placed in charge of her son’s finances while he remains locked in a New Hampshire psychiatric facility facing criminal charges.

Cher had asked for the immediate conservatorship over Elijah Blue Allman, her only son with late Allman Brothers singer Gregg Allman, ahead of his next quarterly payout from his late father’s trust in May. The judge said she did not see the urgency and would reconsider the matter at a follow-up hearing in June. The judge added Cher could return sooner if another court finds Allman lacks capacity.

Allman, 49, appeared at the hearing remotely. On a live video feed from his hospital in New Hampshire, he sat in an office chair and spoke only briefly, asking that his former attorney, Steven K. Brumer, represent him and thanking the judge for her ruling.

“I certainly understand the concerns of Mr. Allman’s friends and family regarding his behavior. But those concerns do not necessarily equate to a finding that the proposed conservatee lacks capacity or that a probate conservatorship is appropriate,” Jessica A Uzcategui said from the bench. “I am going to deny the temporary conservatorship without prejudice.”

Friday’s hearing came more than a year after Cher and Allman reached a private settlement in 2024 that ended Cher’s earlier effort to get control of his trust payments. Cher brought her first petition for a conservatorship in 2023, claiming Allman “urgently needed” protection amid “severe mental health and substance abuse issues.”

When Cher filed her revived petition last week, she claimed Allman failed to live up to his promise to hire a business manager. She claimed his life has been derailed again by ongoing substance abuse and mental health issues, and he desperately needs court supervision.

“Elijah’s situation has become dire on multiple fronts. His mental health has severely deteriorated, his financial situation is terrible, and his drug dependency is at its worst,” her new petition filed April 15 in probate court and obtained by Rolling Stone alleges. She called Allman “gravely disabled,” pointing to his recent back-to-back arrests in New Hampshire for allegedly making criminal threats at a school and breaking into a woman’s house.

On Friday, Cher’s lawyer, Justin Gold, told the court that Allman ended up in custody after traveling to New Hampshire “to apparently visit a friend” and going on “some sort of a spree” that led to his arrests and hospitalization. Gold argued that a financial conservatorship was urgently needed because Allman is burdened by “substantial debts,” including a $200,000 tax bill and a $6,500-a-month spousal support obligation that he allegedly cannot afford.

“Hopefully his health can be handled and improved [in New Hampshire]. And while he’s there improving himself and hopefully being weaned off addiction and getting some medication, his financial ship can be righted,” Gold said. “He can’t do as much damage in a locked facility, but the damage has been done, and someone needs to deal with it.”

Gold said Cher ultimately retained a lawyer to try to reduce the monthly spousal support payments after Allman defaulted in the divorce case. But he said there’s only so much she can do without more court intervention.

“She’s out here trying to help him, trying to make sure he’s in a position to become the person who she knows and loves,” Gold said. “And the same with his brother and the rest of the family, who are all so sad about what’s happening.”

The judge heard arguments from both sides and said she couldn’t see any “exigency for the court’s intervention” on Friday. She said the trust distribution set for May did not qualify as an emergency.

“Given that the proposed conservatee is currently in a psychiatric hospital with pending charges awaiting him, I don’t have any reason to believe he would be able to access any of that distribution for illicit substances or expensive hotels,” she said.

In a statement to Rolling Stone on Thursday night, Allman’s other lawyer, Avi Levy, said the 49-year-old guitarist for the rock band Deadsy was “disappointed but not surprised by this latest attempt to gain control over his finances.” The lawyer said he and his co-counsel had “spoken with Elijah several times this week, and he remains in good spirits despite the circumstances.”

When Cher first sought conservatorship control in December 2023, Allman appeared in court to oppose the effort in person, saying he had stopped using drugs and would get his finances in order. Judge Uzcategui declined to grant an emergency conservatorship then as well and set a more comprehensive hearing on a possible permanent arrangement, but then the parties settled.

Since 2024, Cher claims, Allman has been “living wildly beyond his means,” bouncing between “expensive hotels he cannot afford” and short-term rental homes, allegedly causing more than $50,000 in damage to one Airbnb, and purportedly racking up an $18,000 bill with a drug dealer.

According to a bail order obtained by Rolling Stone, Allman was arrested on Feb. 27 at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, on suspicion of trespassing, criminal threats, and simple assault. Local outlet WMUR 9 News reported that Allman allegedly slipped onto campus, claiming he was a prospective parent, turned belligerent, and poked a student with his cane. Allman was booked and released, then arrested again two days later on a burglary rap in Windham, New Hampshire, after a woman called police saying she was “hiding in a closet” because someone had broken into her home, a police affidavit obtained by Rolling Stone alleges. Officers arrived to find a shattered glass door and Allman “seated on the living room couch smoking a cigarette,” the report says.

A New Hampshire judge set a June 16 trial for Allman’s Concord school case at a hearing on Monday, WMUR reported. Allman did not attend the Monday arraignment hearing in person, the outlet said.

Cher’s documents say Allman receives $120,000 a year via the trust set up by his dad. Once he gets a payment, it’s “immediately squandered without regard for his liabilities or well-being,” Cher’s court filings say.

“There is a clear pattern in Elijah’s behavior,” Cher alleges in the documents filed by her lawyer. “After he receives his trust distribution, he checks into a hotel, usually the Chateau Marmont, buys and does drugs until he runs out of money, ends up in the hospital, or overdoses. Based on this pattern, if Elijah were to receive his trust distribution, he will use it to buy drugs.”

Allman’s brother, Devon Allman, submitted a declaration in support of the new conservatorship request. “It is my opinion that he is currently a danger to himself and unable to manage his life, and any funds that would become available to him,” he wrote. “My recent visit to check in on him brought me unfortunate and profound sadness that took weeks of my life to process. His condition, both physical and mental, was appalling and delusional, respectively.”

Devon said he previously was compelled to “negotiate with a heroin dealer for a five-figure sum of drug debts” because his brother was unable to pay. “That was very difficult to navigate. I felt compelled to help for his safety, though,” he wrote. “I strongly urge that Elijah be kept away from money until he has demonstrated a commitment to invest in his long-term physical and mental health.”

When Cher initially sought a conservatorship in 2023, she asked to be named her son’s financial conservator. This time, she’s asking the court to appoint Jason Rubin, a licensed private fiduciary. She’s asking the court to grant Rubin the power to receive her son’s trust distributions and use them to pay Allman’s expenses at his discretion. Rubin appeared in court Friday but did not address the judge.

Full Article & Source:
Judge Denies Cher’s Bid for Emergency Conservatorship Over Son Elijah Blue Allman

Cher Begged Court for a Conservatorship Before Son Elijah’s Hospitalization

Cher Ends Conservatorship Battle With Son Elijah Blue Allman

Singer Cher Agrees to 'Pause' Fight to Place Troubled Son Elijah Allman Under Conservatorship After He Demands Sanctions Over Subpoenas

Cher’s Son Argues She’s ‘Unfit to Serve’ as His Conservator

Cher dealt another blow in her request for temporary conservatorship over her son

Look, I Don't Need Conservatorship ... Plenty Reasons Why!!!

Cher Files for Conservatorship of Son Elijah Blue Allman

Elijah Blue Allman Contests Cher's Request for Conservatorship

Cher's Son Elijah Blue Allman Looks Clean-cut in First Sighting Since Conservatorship Victory

Jay Leno 'Enjoys Taking Care' of Dementia-Stricken Wife Mavis Despite Spouse Sometimes 'Not Knowing'

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sun, 03 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

Though Jay Leno became his wife Mavis' conservator in 2024 due to her ongoing battle with dementia, he remains content as he celebrates his 76th birthday on April 28.

Source:
Jay Leno 'Enjoys Taking Care' of Dementia-Stricken Wife Mavis Despite Spouse Sometimes 'Not Knowing'

New York OPWDD Awards $8 Million Contract To Expand Supported Decision-Making Model For Individuals With I/DD

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sat, 02 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) announced that, through a competitive procurement process, it has awarded AIM Services Inc. a statewide contract valued at nearly $8 million to implement New York’s Supported Decision-Making model for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Supported Decision-Making (SDM) empowers people to make their own decisions with help from trusted supporters. Supported Decision Making is an alternative to guardianship, that maintains the person’s basic human right to make their own decisions through the execution of a Supported Decision-Making Agreement, which is a legally recognized document and must be accepted by third parties. The contract will establish a structured, replicable framework for use across the state.

New York has been testing supported decision-making since 2016, when it launched a pilot led by Supported Decision-Making New York (SDMNY) and CUNY Hunter College. Funding for the pilot was provided by the New York State Council on Developmental Disabilities. SDMNY was formed as a consortium of Hunter College/CUNY, the New York Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation (formerly NYSACRA), and Arc Westchester, a major provider organization. The pilot aimed to educate stakeholders on supported decision-making as an alternative to guardianship, reduce reliance on guardianship for individuals with I/DD, and restore rights for individuals already under guardianship.

In 2021, OPWDD allocated a portion of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to expand and extend the pilot program. The expansion focused on engaging individuals with I/DD, exploring supported decision-making options, and developing effective, sustainable agreements. OPWDD also contracted with SDMNY during this phase of the pilot.

For the statewide contract, OPWDD issued a request for proposals (RFP OPD-2024-39) on April 29, 2025, with responses due June 10, 2025. The state reported receiving no additional responses. The contract was scheduled to begin on September 1, 2025, and run for five years. OPWDD announced the award on March 17, 2026.

Under the contract, AIM Services will be responsible for four core activities:

Establishing the program by training facilitators, recruiting individuals served by OPWDD, and developing billing standards
Conducting quality assurance oversight of third-party supported decision-making providers to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and adherence to pilot-developed processes
Providing community education on the supported decision-making model, its goals, and its role as an alternative or complement to adult guardianship
Completing data collection and reporting to evaluate statewide implementation, identify trends, and inform ongoing training and quality assurance

Founded in 1979, AIM Services, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides residential and community-based services to individuals with I/DD.

OPWDD delivers services both directly and through a network of approximately 500 nonprofit providers. Roughly 80% of services are delivered by private nonprofit agencies, while 20% are provided by state-operated programs. Individuals served by OPWDD reside in a range of settings, including residential homes, group homes, supported apartments, and institutional environments such as developmental centers and other secure facilities.

OPWDD also provides residential supports and services for approximately 43,000 people with I/DD throughout the state. To serve them, OPWDD operates about 1,500 residential and institutional sites across the state.

The RFP is available for download from the OPEN MINDS Government RFP & Contract Database at no charge to OPEN MINDS Circle subscribers.

OPEN MINDS last reported on this topic in New York State OPWDD Provides Funding To Extend A Supported Decisionmaking Pilot on January 20, 2022.

For more information, contact:

Jennifer O’Sullivan, Director of Communications and Public Affairs, New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, 44 Holland Avenue, Albany, New York 12229; 518-474-6601; Email: communications.office@opwdd.ny.gov; Website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/
AIM Services, Inc., 4227 Route 50, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866; 518-587-3208; Fax: 518-587-7236; Email: aimservices@aimservicesinc.org; Website: https://www.aimservicesinc.org/

Source:
New York OPWDD Awards $8 Million Contract To Expand Supported Decision-Making Model For Individuals With I/DD

BSO fire lieutenant bonds out of jail after elderly abuse on-duty allegations

noreply@blogger.com (NASGA) — Sat, 02 May 2026 05:30:00 +0000

During a bond hearing, a judge set Lewin's bond at $50,000 and barred him from working as a paramedic, EMT, or firefighter while the case is pending.

Source:
BSO fire lieutenant bonds out of jail after elderly abuse on-duty allegations