Local Man Arrested for Scamming Elderly Woman in Georgia

According to reports out of Hall County, a man has been arrested after the conclusion of a month-long investigation.

The man has been accused of defrauding an 84-year-old woman out of over $70,000. This conduct occurred over the course of four years. The investigation began after a friend of the victim reported the suspicious financial activity to authorities.

As a Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney, I will outline one of the crimes that the man has been accused of committing - exploitation of an elder person in Georgia - in today's post.

The state of Georgia has various laws protecting the most vulnerable people in our society. This includes minor children, handicapped individuals, and the elderly. See how the law works below.

Exploitation of an Elder Person in Georgia

The Georgia Code defines Exploitation and Intimidation of Elder Persons in Georgia as:

When a person:

1. Knowingly and willfully exploiting a disabled adult, elder person, or resident;
2. Willfully inflicting physical pain, physical injury, sexual abuse, mental anguish, or unreasonable confinement upon a disabled adult, elder person, or resident;
3. Willfully depriving a disabled adult, elder person, or resident of essential services.

Another way a suspect can violate the statute is by threatening, intimidating, or attempting to intimidate a disabled adult or elder person who is the subject of an investigation. It is also a crime to knowingly and willfully obstruct or in any way impede an investigation. O.C.G.A. §16-5-102.

If convicted of exploitation and intimidation of elder persons, the offense is classified as a felony. The penalty can include a prison sentence between one and twenty years or a fine of no more than $50,000.00, or both prison and a fine.

Practice Note

It must be mentioned, however, that even though the man has been arrested on multiple felony charges that an arrest is not the same as a conviction. No matter the situation - there are various sides to every story.

If you or a loved one is facing charges in the state of Georgia, call our offices today.