The DEA Protective Services Unit is responsible
for investigating complaints of elderly
abuse of Rhode Islanders 60 and older by a
family member, caregiver or person with duty of care.. Abuse may include physical,
emotional, sexual, financial exploitation, or
abandonment.
Rhode Island law requires any person
who has reasonable cause to believe that an
elderly person has been abused to report it to
the DEA. Failure to report abuse of a person
60 or older can result in a fine of up to $1,000.
The DEA Protective Services Unit develops
a care plan to prevent additional abuse
and address the elder’s social service needs.
Self-Neglect occurs when a person is
no longer able to care for himself/herself. Reports
of self-neglect are also made to the DEA
Protective Services Unit. The senior’s needs
are assessed and necessary services are 0ffered.
Under Rhode Island law (R.I.G.L 42-66-10), DEA records pertaining to a person reported to be abused, neglected, exploited or abandoned are confidential and are not deemed public records.
To file an elderly abuse or self-neglect
report, call the DEA Protective Services Unit at 462-0555.
