Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation

HISTORY

In 1986, the Attorney General’s Office began training specifically on elder issues with a series of one-day workshops across the state on “Fraud Against the Elderly.” This led to the design of a five-day “Crimes Against the Elderly” course that was eventually adopted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) as an “Advanced” course. With a growing senior population, there was an increase in elderly criminal victimization such as financial exploitation, abuse and neglect. To meet the demand for further training and a designation, the Attorney General’s Office expanded training for law enforcement and those professionals who interact with this population on a daily basis. These courses provide participants with detailed information on the role of the law enforcement officer in combating senior crime, in establishing prosecutorial cases, and a comprehensive look at abuse and neglect.

INITIAL DESIGNATION

To earn the Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation, a participant must successfully complete the course offered through FCPTI. This 40-hour basic course provides foundational training and skill development in elder crime prevention services. The training is designed to increase understanding of the laws affecting the elderly and the documents associated; recognize elder crimes and accurate aging process issues. It will also familiarize the participant with the criminal justice system as it relates to elder crime and available resources. It will also outline the role law enforcement plays in elder abuse prevention and enhance attendees’ knowledge and skills in formulating successful investigations and legal remedies. In addition, a specific effort has been made to enhance the participants understanding of Florida’s residential facility system

MAINTAINING THE DESIGNATION

The initial Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation is valid for a period of three years from the date that appears on the Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation certificate. To maintain the designation, a Florida Elder Crime Practitioner must successfully complete the eight-hour Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation Update course offered by FCPTI. Upon successful completion of a Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation Update course, the designation will be renewed for a period of three years from the date of the Update course

• • Florida Elder Crime Practitioner Designation Update is a eight-hour course which informs the practitioner of changes and updates them on new and the most recent elder issues and amended resources. The general format of the course is prevention, intervention and response to elder issues.

Special certificates and designations earned through the Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute (FCPTI) should not be construed as a "Certification" from the Attorney General's Office.