S.C. attorney general targeting crimes against vulnerable adults

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCSC) - South Carolina’s attorney general announced efforts Tuesday to raise awareness of crimes against vulnerable adults, including a new name for the unit that investigates them.

Attorney General Alan Wilson said the announcement comes in recognition of World Elder Awareness Day, which occurred on Saturday.

South Carolina’s vulnerable adult population, consisting mainly of older citizens and those with intellectual impairments, are suffering from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, often in plain sight, he said.

“This office historically has investigated and prosecuted crimes against vulnerable adults, but a lot of people have no idea we even do that. So today, we are doubling our efforts by increasing awareness through outreach,” Wilson said.

The Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Fraud Unit has increased outreach efforts to local law enforcement over the last two years and has seen an increase of 30% in the reports coming from law enforcement, Wilson said.

The identified cases throughout the state range from nurses stealing prescription medicine and replacing it with over-the-counter medications to facility s locking residents in their rooms with no food, water, prescriptions, or air conditioning, according to a release from Wilson’s office.

This specialized unit works with law enforcement on cases, provides training, and takes referrals. This strategy addresses the experience, training, and manpower issues faced by local law enforcement agencies.

The unit was previously known as the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. With the new name, Wilson hopes the unit’s focus will be more clear to the general public.

Anyone who suspects cases of Medicaid fraud of elder abuse can call the unit at 888-NO-CHEAT.

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