Legislation strengthens penalties for elder abuse

Gov. Rick Snyder on Tuesday signed legislation that further protects Michigan's vulnerable adults by strengthening the ability of judges to impose stricter sentences for criminals who embezzle from seniors or the mentally ill. "This is a good bill that will help in our efforts to combat the abuse of vulnerable citizens in Michigan," Snyder said. House Bill 4264, sponsored by state Rep. Tom Leonard, allows judges to impose sentences consecutively on defendants convicted of multiple offenses under the Vulnerable Adult Embezzlement Statute. The measure brings the vulnerable adult embezzlement statute up to date with the state's general embezzlement statutes. In 2012, Snyder signed a 10-bill package to protect Michigan's senior citizens and vulnerable adults. The measures encourage the reporting of elder abuse and the strengthening of penalties for those who are convicted. HB 4264 is now Public Act 34 of 2013. Visit michiganlegislature.org for more information. Published: Thu, May 23, 2013