Is elder abuse a felony in Ohio?

Is Elder Abuse a Felony in Ohio?

Elder abuse is a serious issue that affects millions of older adults around the world. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation. In Ohio, elder abuse is considered a serious crime, and perpetrators can face severe penalties, including felony charges.

Is Elder Abuse a Felony in Ohio?

Yes, elder abuse can be a felony in Ohio. Under Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 2919.24, it is a felony to abuse, neglect, or exploit an older adult or person with a disability. Specifically, the law states:

"Whoever knowingly or recklessly causes harm to a vulnerable adult or person with a disability commits elder abuse, a felony of the fifth degree."

Types of Elder Abuse that Can Lead to Felony Charges

While any form of elder abuse is serious, some types of abuse are more likely to result in felony charges. These include:

• Financial exploitation: This can include stealing an older adult’s money, taking control of their finances without their consent, or using their credit cards or bank accounts without permission.
• Physical abuse: This can include hitting, slapping, pushing, or otherwise physically harming an older adult.
• Sexual abuse: This can include sexual assault, sexual harassment, or any other form of sexual misconduct against an older adult.
• Neglect: This can include failing to provide an older adult with necessary care, food, shelter, or medical attention.

Consequences of Elder Abuse in Ohio

Elder abuse can have serious consequences for the victim, including:

• Physical harm: Elder abuse can cause physical harm, including injuries, illnesses, and even death.
• Emotional trauma: Elder abuse can cause emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Financial loss: Elder abuse can result in financial loss, including the loss of savings, assets, and property.
• Loss of independence: Elder abuse can result in the loss of independence, as older adults may be forced to rely on others for care and support.

Punishments for Elder Abuse in Ohio

In Ohio, the punishments for elder abuse depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the severity of the abuse. However, in general, elder abuse can result in:

• Fines: Perpetrators of elder abuse can be fined up to $10,000.
• Imprisonment: Perpetrators of elder abuse can be imprisoned for up to five years.
• Registration as a sex offender: In cases of sexual abuse, perpetrators may be required to register as sex offenders.

Reporting Elder Abuse in Ohio

If you suspect that an older adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, you can report it to the Ohio Department of Aging’s Adult Protective Services (APS) program. APS is responsible for investigating reports of elder abuse and providing services to help protect older adults from harm.

How to Report Elder Abuse in Ohio

To report elder abuse in Ohio, you can:

• Call the Ohio Department of Aging’s Adult Protective Services (APS) hotline: 1-866-243-5875
• Email APS: aps@odh.ohio.gov
• Contact your local law enforcement agency: If you believe an older adult is in immediate danger, you can contact your local law enforcement agency for assistance.

Conclusion

Elder abuse is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for older adults. In Ohio, elder abuse is a felony, and perpetrators can face severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. If you suspect that an older adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, you can report it to the Ohio Department of Aging’s Adult Protective Services (APS) program. By reporting elder abuse and working to prevent it, we can help protect older adults from harm and ensure their safety and well-being.

Table: Types of Elder Abuse

Table: Consequences of Elder Abuse

Table: Punishments for Elder Abuse in Ohio