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PS 781

Para crear el “Programa de Desvío para la Reeducación en Casos de Explotación Financiera que constituyan delito grave cometido por familiares de personas de edad avanzada o incapacitados” a los fines de establecer un programa de reeducación para aquellas personas que se declaren culpable o convicto que fueren del Artículo 127-C de la Ley 146-2012, según enmendada, conocida como “Código Penal de Puerto Rico” y tengan un vínculo de consanguinidad o afinidad con la víctima, para autorizar la expedición automática de orden de protección en estos casos; para enmendar el Artículo 127-C (b)(2) de la Ley 146-2012, según emendada, conocida como “Código Penal de Puerto Rico”; y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico creates mandatory reeducation program for family members convicted of financial exploitation of elderly/incapacitated persons, with automatic protective orders for victims.

Veto Expreso
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · PS 781

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 781 creates a diversion and reeducation program for individuals convicted or pleading guilty to financial exploitation of elderly or incapacitated persons (Article 127-C of Puerto Rico's Penal Code) when the perpetrator is a family member or relative of the victim. The bill also mandates automatic issuance of protective orders in these cases and amends provisions of the existing financial exploitation statute.

Why is this important

Financial exploitation of vulnerable populations by family members is a significant concern affecting elder abuse prevention and victim protection. This bill addresses a gap in the criminal justice system by offering rehabilitation alternatives while simultaneously strengthening victim protections through automatic restraining orders, potentially reducing recidivism while safeguarding victims from further harm.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim concerns: Some victim advocacy groups may argue that diversion programs prioritize perpetrator rehabilitation over victim restitution and justice, particularly if the program reduces incarceration time
  • Program effectiveness and resources: The bill doesn't specify funding mechanisms, staffing, or success metrics for the reeducation program, raising questions about whether adequate resources will be allocated
  • Automatic protective orders scope: Questions exist regarding the breadth and duration of automatic protective orders—whether they adequately protect victims while remaining proportional to specific case circumstances

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

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