TRIAD Program
In 1998, this office entered into an agreement that creates a partnership between the Suffolk Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, Sheriff's Office, Police Department, American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), and the Attorney General's Office to work together to reduce the criminal victimization of older citizens and enhance the delivery of law enforcement services to this population. Triad provides the opportunity for the exchange of information between law enforcement and senior citizens. It focuses on reducing unwarranted fear of crime and improving the quality of life for seniors by implementing educational and crime prevention programs which help keep senior citizens from becoming victims of abuse, fraud, scams and other types of crime. This is true community policing -- providing better service to a population which appreciates, respects and supports law enforcement.
Older Americans comprise the most rapidly growing segment of the population. One in every eight Americans is already age 65 or older. Increased life expectancy is leading to new issues and problems for the criminal justice system as most communities experience a dramatic increase in the number of older persons. Calls for service, crimes, victims -- all are changing.
Why is Triad Necessary?
Older Americans comprise the most rapidly growing segment of the population. One in every eight Americans is already age 65 or older. Increased life expectancy is leading to new issues and problems for the criminal justice system as most communities experience a dramatic increase in the number of older persons. Calls for service, crimes, victims -- all are changing.
What Can Triad Do?
- Crime prevention programs for older persons
- Information on how to avoid criminal victimization
- Expanded involvement in Neighborhood Watch
- Home security information and inspections
- Personal safety tips
- Knowledge of current frauds and scams
- Training in coping with telephone solicitations and door-to-door salesmen
- Elder abuse prevention, recognition and reporting information
- Training for deputies and officers in communicating with and assisting older persons
- Reassurance programs for older citizens
- Telephone call-in programs by and for seniors
- Adopt-a-senior visits for shut-ins
- Buddy system for shut-ins
- Emergency preparedness plans by and for seniors
- Senior walks at parks or malls
- Senior safe shopping trips for groceries
- Victim assistance by and for seniors
- Courtwatch activities
- Refrigerator cards with emergency medical information
- Older persons volunteering within law enforcement agencies