The Civil Litigation Bureau in the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney has launched a statewide initiative to combat elder abuse and financial fraud, responding to what officials describe as a disturbing rise in scams targeting older adults.
Members of the Division of Criminal Justice have been visiting adult communities and senior centers across Connecticut to educate seniors on how to avoid becoming victims, highlighting warning signs and offering practical advice on where to turn for help.
The initiative began on October 30, 2025, with an outreach event at Heritage Village in Southbury, home to more than 4,500 senior citizens. Three more sessions featuring a PowerPoint presentation developed by bureau staff, and a local law enforcement officer to help residents feel comfortable about reaching out for assistance, have been held throughout the state.
“We’ve noticed a sharp increase in scams over the past few years, not just phone scams, but mail scams, text message scams, and even email phishing attempts,” Assistant State’s Attorney Donna Fusco told attendees gathered in the Great Room at Masonicare at Greenridge Place in Rocky Hill on December 12, 2025. “These schemes are becoming more sophisticated, and unfortunately, older adults are often the primary targets.”
Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Angela Macchiarulo
Assistant State’s Attorney Fusco, Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Angela Macchiarulo and Inspector Stephen Burstein explained to the Masonicare attendees that the program was created in response to a noticeable increase in elder abuse and fraud cases. The prosecutors offered an interactive presentation and encouraged the seniors to share their experiences and learn strategies to protect themselves.
Southbury Police Chief Christopher Grillo, who attended the presentation at Heritage Village and has held similar elderly fraud programs with Southbury officers, emphasized that the most important outcome of these sessions is opening lines of communication.
“The biggest takeaway isn’t just educating the elderly on all the types of scams,” Chief Grillo said. “It’s reinforcing that it’s OK, if you do get scammed or think you’re getting scammed, to talk to somebody else about it. We find that the elderly are often so embarrassed. They don’t want to trouble their kids or admit they fell for a scheme. These conversations help break that stigma.”
Chief Grillo noted that scams have evolved dramatically over the past 20 years. “Back then, identity theft meant someone stole a checkbook and duplicated checks. Now, scammers use AI technology to duplicate voices. It’s scary how sophisticated these schemes have become,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of community involvement and outreach.
“Sometimes people don’t have family nearby, and that makes them more vulnerable. We try to connect them with senior centers or social services. Everyone can play a role by checking in on older neighbors and making sure they have support," Chief Grillo said.
Officials say the response to the initiative has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents requesting repeat visits and sharing the information with friends and neighbors in community settings, such as bingo nights, to help others stay informed.
The financial impact of elder fraud is staggering, with older Americans losing an estimated $36 billion annually. Beyond financial loss, victims often experience stress, anxiety, and shame, which can prevent them from seeking help. The campaign aims to empower seniors with knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and others.
The initiative will continue with presentations at senior centers and housing facilities across Connecticut.