Press release from Elder Options
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — On August 4th, the Alachua Senior Recreation Center became the hub for crucial training as detectives, investigators, and law enforcement from across North Central Florida gathered to address issues of elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.
This training session was prompted by a scam alert by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) in July. The ACSO has warned that local fraud losses could skyrocket to $8.6 million by 2026, with the majority of these scams preying on residents aged 60 and up. The fraudsters are utilizing advanced methods, including AI voice cloning technology and fake law enforcement threats related to jury duties or warrants.
Elder Options hosted this multi-jurisdictional training, skillfully coordinated by Leslie Andrews, the Elder Abuse Project Coordinator. Participants included personnel from various agencies such as the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Gainesville Police Department, Ocala Police Department, Adult Protective Services (APS), and the State Attorney’s Office for the 8th Judicial Circuit. The session was inaugurated by State Attorney Brian S. Kramer, who stressed the importance of unified efforts among first responders, investigators, and prosecutors to effectively tackle high-tech fraud and elder abuse.
State Attorney Bill Gladson of the Fifth Judicial Circuit highlighted the regional importance of such training. He stated, “Shielding older adults from abuse and exploitation necessitates vigilance, teamwork, and perpetual learning. Through Elder Options’ training, law enforcement can better identify warning signs, conduct meticulous investigations, and offer improved protection to vulnerable community members. From my experience, strong alliances and expert training yield stronger cases, ensuring offenders face justice and victims receive rightful protection.”
The curriculum was developed by the National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life (NCALL) and funded by the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women. Lead instructors Chris Merkle, a District Attorney investigator, and Tara Patet, a veteran prosecutor, equipped attendees with practical tools for investigating complex cases, including:
- Financial Exploitation — Utilizing forensic tracking software and accounting methods to trace stolen funds and counter complex schemes.
- Specialized Victim Interviewing — Applying trauma-informed techniques adapted for older victims and suspects, including those addressing cognitive decline and dementia.
- Evidence Collection & Multi-Agency Prosecution — Streamlining evidence sharing and mandatory reporting among police, sheriffs, APS, and state attorneys across county boundaries.
Direct Reporting Steps for the Community
- Contact Local Law Enforcement Immediately. If funds have been transferred or an account compromised, residents should report it to their local sheriff’s office or police department without delay, as prompt reporting gives investigators the best opportunity to trace funds.
- Report to Adult Protective Services, Department of Children and Families (1-800-962-2873). The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Press 2 to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the elderly or a vulnerable adult. Reports can also be made online at
- Call the Elder Options Helpline (1-800-262-2243). Specialists connect older adults, family members, and caregivers across all 16 North Central Florida counties with victim advocate assistance, resources, and local protective services.
- File a Report with the FBI’s IC3 at ic3.gov. Online scams, phishing attempts, and AI voice cloning threats can be reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center to help track cybercrime patterns and support criminal cases.