Sexual abuse is a sensitive subject and can leave severe physical, mental, and emotional impacts on the victim. When vulnerable adults are sexually abused, the effects can be devastating.
If you know a vulnerable adult who has experienced sexual abuse, understand they have the power to fight back. Contact an experienced vulnerable adult sexual abuse attorney who can help you retaliate and defend your loved one’s rights.
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As Minnesota’s population ages and the number of Minnesotans with physical and cognitive impairments rises, the number of people who fit the label of “vulnerable adult” has increased. According to the Department of Justice, a vulnerable adult is any person 18 years of age or older who fits any of the following descriptions:
In cases where the person is disabled, they must meet one of two stipulations to be legally considered a vulnerable adult:
If you are unsure if your loved one’s condition falls into this category, consult a sexual abuse attorney for further information.
Sexual abuse of a vulnerable person is the rape or sexual assault of a person who is cognitively or physically impaired or unable to consent. Vulnerable adults are typically elderly persons or persons with a disability. Because they are unable or unlikely to disclose their abuse, vulnerable people are often seen as targets.
Victims of sexual abuse commonly know the perpetrators, as they are often in a position of authority or trust in the victim’s life. According to data from the United States Marshals Service’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, 83% of disabled females and 32% of disabled males have been sexually assaulted.
The Minnesota Vulnerable Adults Act was enacted in 1980 and specifies procedures for reporting alleged maltreatment of vulnerable adults to government entities, investigating maltreatment claims, and providing vulnerable adults with protective services. The act aims to keep vulnerable adults safe in their residence while they receive health care and supportive services. The act defines who is considered a vulnerable adult, who is obliged or permitted to report maltreatment, and what constitutes maltreatment, including abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
When you have reason to believe a loved one is being sexually abused, handling it can be emotionally distressing. If you suspect a vulnerable adult in your life is experiencing sexual abuse, you should consider doing the following:
If an adult has disclosed they have been sexually abused, you should speak with other people who know them to see if they have had similar concerns. Ideally, you should contact professionals who are experienced in handling these situations:
Get information about who is suspected to be sexually assaulting the victim first. For instance, if they’re in a long term care facility you want to ensure it’s not the caretakers who are abusing them before consulting the staff of the facility directly.
Sexual abuse is a heinous act, especially when it occurs to people who cannot fully defend themselves. No matter how it occurred, you should always consider contacting a lawyer to help you retaliate against your loved one’s abuser. Obtaining legal help from an attorney who is experienced in handling vulnerable adult sexual abuse cases can help you get justice for your loved one’s mistreatment and receive compensation for their care as a result.
Knutson + Casey is here to help you and your loved one fight for recovered damages for medical expenses, as well as the pain and suffering you both endured because of this abuse. We have years of experience righting wrongs for people who have been abused, so rest assured we will be in your corner throughout this process. To learn more about how we can help, contact us online through our contact form or call us at (507) 344-8888.