Training Addresses Elder Abuse

VALDOSTA – Valdosta State University hosted a two-day certification training for at-risk adults throughout the region Feb. 19 and 20 in the University Center Cypress Room.

“This training addressed a facet of our society that most people overlook or do not realize exists,” said Tim Yorkey, training specialist in the Office of Employee and Organizational Development. “Crimes against our elderly are often overlooked or ignored. This class offered education and awareness to agencies and departments that are considered the first responders to aid our elderly who in many cases are defenseless.”

The training was led by Pat King, a forensic nurse and POST certified officer who has investigated elder abuse cases with Gwinnett County Solicitor Generals’ Office, and David F. Blake, a retired deputy chief investigator for the DeKalb County Police Department and DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office.

The course included 53 participants who work in protective services such as law enforcement agencies and district attorney offices. Several counties were represented including Lowndes, Chatham and Bibb.

“The training also provided an opportunity for networking and pooling of resources among agencies working toward a similar goal,” said Yorkey. “VSU is proud to be providing our region with this quality training. By using VSU as a central hub for training such as this, we can offer it cost free to the participants.  Ultimately, elder abuse affects all of us.”

Employee and Organizational Development will hold an executive law enforcement training for law enforcement administration Tuesday, March 26 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the University Center Theatre. For more information, contact Yorkey at (229) 219-1276 or teyorkey@valdosta.edu .