Measure would lengthen time frame on prosecution of financial crimes against seniors

From Illinois Business Journal news services

SPRINGFIELD – A bill that would add four years to the time period in which financial crimes against the elderly can be prosecuted is moving through the Illinois House.

Co-sponsor Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, helped pass the measure out of the House Judiciary – Criminal Committee on April 12.

“Thieves are targeting the elderly and disabled at an increasing rate, and in response, we must take every possible step to prevent these tragic crimes from occurring,” Hoffman said. “We have a responsibility as a community, as a state and as a country to care for our most vulnerable residents.”

House Bill 5805 extends the statute of limitations to seven years, from three, for financial exploitation of an elderly person or those with disabilities. The change is aimed at allowing victims and prosecutors more time to seek justice, and to prevent these criminals from exploiting other seniors or vulnerable residents.

“These crimes are frequently committed by trusted individuals and, after a victim has been exploited, it can take time to sort out what happened and learn who can really be trusted,” Hoffman said. “This bill more than doubles the amount of time victims have to seek justice for this terrible crime.”