What are the criminal charges for elder abuse in Kentucky?

A: Elder abuse is against the law and those found responsible for neglecting or abusing a senior can be held responsible through criminal charges as well as civil lawsuits.

The criminal charges for elder abuse in Kentucky include various misdemeanors and felonies, as explained below: 

• Class B misdemeanor - for anyone, including healthcare providers and any nursing home employees, who reasonably suspects elder abuse, neglect or exploitation but doesn't report it to authorities. If the victim dies, anyone who suspected abuse is still obligated to report their suspicions.
• Class C felony - for anyone guilty of knowingly neglecting or abusing an adult.
• Class D felony - for anyone guilty of wantonly neglecting or abusing an adult.
• Class A misdemeanor - for anyone guilty of recklessly neglecting or abusing an adult.
• Class C felony - for anyone guilty of knowingly exploiting an adult. The exploitation must result in a loss of more than $300 in any resources, financial or otherwise, or a combination of both.
• Class D felony - for anyone guilty of wantonly exploiting an adult. The exploitation must result in a loss of more than $300 in any resources, financial or otherwise, or a combination of both.
• Class A misdemeanor - for anyone guilty of knowingly, recklessly or wantonly exploiting an adult. The exploitation must result in a loss of $300 or less in any resources, financial or otherwise, or a combination of both. 

Punishment for those charges may include fines and/or jail time. If your loved one has been a victim of elder abuse, you should contact the proper legal authorities about the possibility of bringing criminal charges against the negligent parties and speak to a Louisville nursing home abuse lawyer.

Even if criminal charges have been filed, you may be eligible to file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for your loved one's: 

• medical expenses;
• pain and suffering;
• rehabilitation;
• emotional distress; and
• restitution for financial exploitation. 

Contacting a Louisville Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer

If your loved one has been the victim of nursing home abuse, a Louisville nursing home abuse lawyer at Gray and White Law can help you handle every aspect of your nursing home abuse claim. If your loved one has been injured in Kentucky, contact us today for a free evaluation of your case - 1-800-634-8767 or 502-210-8942.