Older adults are vulnerable to the heinous crimes of sexual assault and abuse. Sexual predators often target those who are helpless, defenseless or easy to overpower. This includes the elderly – especially those who are physically or mentally incapacitated. Cases of elder sexual assault in Illinois deserve justice. Pursuing a civil lawsuit with help from an elder assault attorney in Illinois can be an important step forward.
What Is Elder Sexual Assault?
Elder sexual assault is the crime of engaging in nonconsensual sexual contact with an older adult (65 and older). It is often perpetrated by caregivers of the victims, including individuals, nursing home or long-term care facility staff members, nurses, hospice care, and even family members.
Elder sexual assault may involve:
- Inappropriate touching
- Unwanted kissing, hugging or groping
- Forced nudity
- Taking inappropriate photos without permission
- Forced copulation
- Rape or attempted rape
- Sodomy
Any sexual contact without the victim’s consent is assault. This includes contact with seniors who are unable to give consent due to mental incapacity or dementia, such as Alzheimer’s. The sexual abuse of a senior citizen may occur alongside other forms of elder abuse, such as physical, verbal or financial.Â
Signs of Elder Sexual Abuse
Elder sexual assault is something that every family should be aware of if they have an older adult who is dependent on someone else’s care. Even if the caregiver is a trusted family member, it is important to regularly check in with the senior to look for potential signs of abuse.
A sexually assaulted elder may exhibit the following signs:
- Physical trauma, such as trouble walking
- Injuries on the thighs or genitals
- Bloody or torn undergarments
- Sexually transmitted diseases or infections
- Changes in behavior or personalityÂ
- Depression or anxiety
- Withdrawal from peers or social activitiesÂ
- Fear of a certain person or place
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
If you suspect elder sexual assault in Illinois, speak to the potential victim about it, if possible. Take the individual to a safe place away from the caregiver or facility. Report your suspicions to a supervisor and the police for investigation. Show the victim the support they need while helping them get justice.
Taking Legal Action for Elder Sexual Assault in Illinois
Elder sexual assault is a crime in Illinois that can come with penalties such as jail or prison time. However, it is also a civil tort or wrongdoing that gives the victim the right to seek additional justice through a personal injury lawsuit.Â
A sexual assault lawsuit can help to make a survivor whole again. Holding someone accountable for elder sexual abuse can lead to financial compensation for the victim, as well as spreading awareness and potentially protecting others.Â
If a senior was assaulted while in the care of a nursing home or facility, the institution can likely be held liable (financially and legally responsible). Elder care facilities are responsible for ensuring the safety of their residents. This includes conducting proper background checks on staff members, keeping them safe from dangerous scenarios, and responding promptly to complaints or signs of mistreatment. They can also be held liable for the actions of their on-duty employees.
How Can an Elder Sexual Assault Lawyer in Illinois Help?
Working with an experienced Illinois sexual assault attorney during an elder abuse case in Illinois can make a big difference to the outcome and the victim’s overall experience during the legal process. The right lawyer will provide effective and compassionate legal counsel that is tailored to the individual.
For a free and 100-percent confidential elder sexual assault case review in Illinois, contact our attorneys in Glen Carbon.Â
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