(SACRAMENTO, CA) The California State Legislature unanimously passed legislation authored by Assemblymember Bob Blumenfield (D-San Fernando Valley) giving courts the ability to “seize and freeze” a defendant’s assets during elder financial abuse trials.

“People who steal from seniors shouldn’t be allowed to mount an expensive defense with the stolen money,” said Blumenfield.  “That adds shameless insult to injury for victims.  By signing this bill, the governor can help protect vulnerable seniors from being victimized twice.  And, prosecutors will have a powerful new tool to bring justice to seniors.”

Assembly Bill 1293 mirrors current law relating to the prosecution of white collar crime.  In cases where more than $100,000 is alleged to have been stolen or embezzled, the bill allows the court to order the preservation of a defendant’s property while he or she awaits trail.   This prevents the dissipation of assets and ensures that all of a convicted criminal’s assets are available to pay restitution ordered by the court.

A broad coalition of law enforcement and senior advocates support the bill, including the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office, State Attorney General Kamala Harris, AARP, and California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CANHR).

“AB 1293 will send a clear message that the California Legislature is concerned with the plight of elder victims of financial crimes and is doing everything in its power to ensure that victims of financial abuse will have a reasonable opportunity for receiving restitution,” said CANHR in a recent support letter.

AB 1293 passed the State Assembly yesterday with a 76-0 vote, following a Monday Senate vote of 34-0.  It now moves to Governor Jerry Brown for his signature or veto.  Additional information is available at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov.

CONTACT: Anthony Matthews, tel. (916) 319-2040