Are there criminal penalties for nursing home abuse?

In New Hampshire, criminal penalties for nursing home abuse are outlined in state laws. According to the New Hampshire Department of Justice, any type of physical, mental, sexual, or financial abuse inflicted upon a nursing home resident is considered a class A misdemeanor. If the abuser is found guilty, they could be subject to up to one year in prison as well as a fine of up to $2,000. Additionally, if the abuser is a caretaker or professional providing services to the resident, they may be subject to disciplinary action. In the case of abuse resulting in serious injury or death, the abuser may be charged with a class B felony, which carries a possible sentence of 3 ½ to 7 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $4,000. Additionally, if the abuse was committed by a caretaker, they may be required to pay restitution and/or court-imposed supervision fees. In New Hampshire, it is illegal to fail to report elder abuse. Anyone who suspects that nursing home abuse is occurring is required to report it to the police or the Office of Elderly and Adult Services. Those who fail to report may face a class B misdemeanor charge, which carries a potential sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,200. Overall, New Hampshire has enacted laws to protect its vulnerable elderly citizens from nursing home abuse. As such, those convicted of committing nursing home abuse could face criminal charges, as well as potential fines and jail time.

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Are there criminal penalties for nursing home abuse?

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