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Elderly Services
In 1997, the Moline Police Department received a grant from the
United States Department of Justice to underwrite another
Community Oriented Policing initiative. Fiscal resources were to
be focused onto our senior citizens and the problems that affect
them.
Seniors are often victimized by individuals who prey upon the
elderly for profit. Offenses committed against the elderly
include, but are not limited to thefts, burglaries, assaults,
fraud, and deceptive practice. Some of the offenders include the
relatives of the elderly or care providers.
The Elderly Service Officer (ESO) aids seniors with preliminary
reports that must be filed with the ensuing investigations. The
ESO assists the Criminal Investigations Division and Operations
Division with fact-finding efforts and evidence collection.
Referrals are also made to Rock Island County State’s Attorneys
Office and other agencies in the criminal justice system. The
ESO is frequently called upon to aid seniors with matters that
are not necessarily criminal in nature. Instances of family
neglect, isolation, neighborhood incompatibility, and illnesses
that degrade quality of life are often addressed.
The ESO addresses civic clubs, church groups, and social service
providers from a pro-active standpoint. The communication is
intended to educate elderly citizens and family members about
common problems. Presentations also include services provided by
the Elderly Service Officer and other resources including
Alternative for Older Adults.
The ESO Program interacts with the Alzheimer Association, The
Elderly Consortium, Trinity Medical Center Social Services,
Illini Social Services, Robert Young Center, and The Rock Island
County Guardian for the Elderly, and the Quad Cities Senior
Citizens Christmas Lights Tour.
One of the program’s successes is the availability of an officer
who is specially trained in matters that affect the elderly.
Seniors telephoning the Moline Police Department may ask for
Elderly Service Officer. This familiarity notably improves
the communication process and builds trust in our seniors about
the department’s commitment to them.
Useful Links:
www.aarp.org
www.aarp.org/bulletin/consumer/Articles/a2003-06-30-9warningsigns.html
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