NCJ Number
101363
Date Published
1985
Length
126 pages
Annotation
Testimony before the House Select Committee on Aging at a hearing in Plainfield, N.J., in 1985 focuses on patterns of violent crime against the elderly in that area, including its prevalence, consequences, and countermeasures.
Abstract
Testimony is presented by two elderly crime victims; panels of Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials; and a panel of representatives from groups that serve senior citizens. Testimony covered victims' fear of further victimization and health problems stemming from their assault, the elderly's high risk for victimization by property crimes that may produce assaults, and the elderly's inability physically, financially, and psychologically to rebound from criminal victimization as well as other age groups. Some suggestions for increasing the protection of the elderly are discussed, including improved victim services, particularly compensation; education and organization for crime prevention; improved siting and design for senior citizen facilities; stiffer sentences for those who commit violent crimes and crimes against the elderly; and an increased police presence in high-crime areas. Graphic and tabular data and crime prevention material.