Just Dropping a Few Hints

   My heart went out to the elderly lady who wrote the anonymous letter to the editor on August 19 about being ripped off in Duluth. She was the victim of what's called a pigeon drop. A professional woman asked her for directions to the UPS store so she could return a package of money to its rightful owner. The next thing the elderly lady knew, she'd been suckered into a scam. Someone posing as a lawyer said the package contained $65,000, which the women could legally keep if they paid the taxes on it. The poor lady maxed out her credit card only to discover the whole story was a hoax.
   Sadly enough, these things happen all too often. So common is elder abuse that the court system has published a booklet about it. I picked one up at Lilburn City Hall. 
   A personal message from Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter reads: "Crimes committed against our senior citizens have become a sad but real problem within our society. This book has been prepared in an attempt to make you more informed about crimes that have been perpetrated against other seniors in our community. Realizing that the problem exists is the first step in the prevention of future acts. While we stand ready to prosecute these crimes vigorously, we need your help in being prepared when these offenders approach you."
   The booklet goes on to explain various types of abuse. However, strangers are not the most common abusers. Family, friends, neighbors and caregivers also frequently abuse the elderly. In the state of Georgia it is against the law to abuse, neglect or exploit an elderly person or person with disabilities. Unfortunately, these crimes are often not reported out of fear of repercussions or, in the case of the lady in Duluth, embarrassment. 
   If you've been abused, or suspect someone has been, several agencies are available for advice and assistance. 
   Seniors can call the Elderly Legal Assistance Program at 404-463-3333. Gwinnett Legal Aid, which provides free legal assistance to low income Georgians, can be reached at 770-822-8599. And the Senior Legal Hotline number is 404-657-9915.
   The booklet gives other sources for financial assistance, including the Area Agency on Aging at 404-657-5258.
   I called those numbers and asked for advice that might have helped the lady in Duluth. The rule of thumb is, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Also, these experts noted that most scam artists are not violent criminals. They only play off people's greed. DA Danny Porter said, "Legitimate business people don't do business in a mall parking lot. If someone approaches you with money and a convoluted story, say, 'Fine, stay here and I'll call the police so we can give it to them.'"
   This column may not help that lady who was pigeon dropped, but hopefully, dropping a few tips will keep other from being scammed. 

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