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HB 5795

AN ACT ESTABLISHING AN ELDER JUSTICE UNIT IN THE DIVISION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jane Garibay and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut would establish a specialized Elder Justice Unit in the Division of Criminal Justice to investigate and prosecute crimes targeting seniors, addressing elder fraud, abuse, and exploitation.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Aging
#chiefstate'sattorney #crimesagainsttheelderly #criminaljustice
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Bill Summary · HB 5795

Legislative bill overview

HB 5795 would create a dedicated Elder Justice Unit within Connecticut's Division of Criminal Justice to specifically investigate and prosecute crimes targeting older adults. This specialized unit would focus on elder abuse, financial exploitation, fraud, and other offenses disproportionately affecting seniors. The bill recognizes elder victimization as a distinct criminal justice priority requiring dedicated resources and expertise.

Why is this important

Elder fraud and abuse cost victims billions annually and often go unreported due to shame, isolation, or cognitive decline. A dedicated unit can develop specialized investigative techniques, improve victim support services, and potentially deter offenders through consistent prosecution. This addresses a gap where elder crimes often fall between general criminal units and victim services, resulting in lower prosecution rates compared to other crime categories.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding questions: Creating a new unit requires budget allocation during a time of fiscal constraints; unclear whether this comes from existing criminal justice budgets or new appropriations
  • Scope and jurisdiction: Potential overlap or coordination issues with existing agencies (Adult Protective Services, local law enforcement, state police) could create bureaucratic complexity
  • Resource prioritization: Some may argue resources should expand general criminal prosecution capacity rather than create a specialized unit, especially if elder crime numbers don't warrant dedicated staff

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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