Georgia is getting older. According to an AJC article published in 2018, the state’s senior citizen population is on the rise. In fact, the Georgia Council on Aging has reported a 550% increase in elder abuse since 2010. With the steady growth of seniors in Georgia also comes along an increase in elder abuse prosecutions.
To combat elder abuse, Georgia lawmakers—in recent years—have: passed bills to crack down on elder abuse, increased funding poured into Georgia’s Adult Services agency, created and funded a new position for a statewide elder abuse prosecutor, and established a new GBI unit to focus on elder abuse crimes (Crimes Against At-Risks Adults Unit). There is no doubt that the state of Georgia is taking elder abuse seriously. The elderly in our Georgia counties and communities should be protected against any criminal behavior exhibited towards them. However, as experienced criminal defense attorneys, we also know that our criminal justice system doesn’t always get it right and that many people are falsely accused of crimes that they did not commit—including elder abuse.
While these initiatives demonstrate the state’s commitment to addressing elder abuse, it’s essential to acknowledge the potential for wrongful accusations within the criminal justice system. At Bixon Law, we are advocates for fairness and justice. We strive to ensure that the rights of both the victims and those accused are protected, particularly in cases as sensitive and nuanced as elder abuse.