Legislator Lorigo, Sheriff’s Office to host Elder Abuse Seminar to address threats to vulnerable residents

Erie County Legislator Joseph C. Lorigo invites residents to attend an Elder Abuse Seminar being held at 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 22 at the Aurora Senior Center, 101 King St., East Aurora. The purpose of the seminar is to address the various forms of abuse that threaten senior citizens on a daily basis, and to provide valuable assistance to victims, family members or anyone with a concern.

 

A second seminar will be held at noon Wednesday, June 24 at the West Seneca Senior Center, 4620 Seneca St., West Seneca.

 

The seminars are being presented by Legislator Lorigo and Joseph Chudoba, Domestic Violence Advocate with the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit.

 

“We continue to see a rise in elder abuse and these crimes are shocking. Often times the victims are being abused by their own family members, making it more difficult to identify. With the help of the Sheriff’s Office, we can meet one-on-one with anyone in need of help, answer questions, and discuss warning signs to help stop and prevent abuse,” said Legislator Lorigo. “All members of the community are welcome to attend. We must take a community-wide approach to stopping elder abuse and be vigilant in our daily lives to help seniors in need.”

 

The seminar will discuss warning signs of abuse that are critical for all residents for be aware of. It will also educate attendees about where they can receive help if they are being victimized. More than 1,500 cases of elder abuse are reported in Erie County each year.

 

If you are a victim or are concerned someone you know is being victimized, please contact authorities. Your local police department or the Erie County Sheriff’s Office can assist, as well as Erie County Adult Protection Services Division, available at 858-6877.

 

For additional information, please contact Legislator Lorigo at 858-8922 or email joseph.lorigo@erie.gov.