Vulnerable Adult Financial Exploitation
Vulnerable Adult Financial Abuse Report this if:
An elderly person (65+) or vulnerable adult with disabilities has been financially exploited through theft, fraud, misuse of funds, or coercion. This includes family members, caregivers, or strangers taking advantage of someone's age, illness, or disability.
Common examples: Caregiver stealing from elderly client, family member misusing power of attorney, romance scams targeting seniors, fake charity or investment scams targeting elderly, contractor overcharging or performing unnecessary work.
Details Investigators Need From You - If you believe a vulnerable adult is being financially exploited, please share as much of the following information as possible. Even if you do not have everything, provide what you do have. These cases require careful documentation to protect the victim's interests.
Victim Information
- Age and any known disabilities or conditions that may affect the victim's decision-making capacity.
- Living situation – independent, assisted living, nursing home, or with family/caregiver.
- Known medical conditions affecting memory, judgment, or cognitive ability.
- Level of independence in managing their own finances.
- Previous financial management – did they handle their own money before this incident?
Suspect and Relationship Information
- Suspect's relationship to the victim – family member, caregiver, friend, service provider, or stranger.
- Access to victim's finances – power of attorney, joint account holder, trusted person, or unauthorized access.
- How long the relationship has existed and the level of trust established.
- Any previous concerns about the suspect's behavior or financial requests.
Financial Documentation
- Bank statements and financial records showing suspicious transactions or account changes.
- Documentation of financial arrangements – power of attorney documents, wills, trust documents.
- Receipts or contracts for services, purchases, or investments that seem excessive or unnecessary.
- Evidence of coercion or manipulation – recordings, witnesses, threatening messages.
- Changes to beneficiaries on accounts, insurance policies, or wills.
- Withdrawal patterns that differ from the victim's normal spending habits.
If Ongoing Abuse is Suspected
- Current safety concerns for the victim.
- Other family members or trusted contacts who can provide additional information.
- Medical or social service providers involved in the victim's care.
- Any attempts by the suspect to isolate the victim from family or friends.
Important: Vulnerable adult cases may require immediate intervention to prevent ongoing harm. Contact Adult Protective Services at 301-909-2450 if you believe the victim is in immediate danger or needs protective services.
Please Note: Cases are typically assigned for investigation only after the reporting person or victim provides adequate supporting information and documentation. The details you provide directly impact our ability to pursue your case.