AG Fitch issues statement on new Mississippi Vulnerable Person Abuse Registry

On Thursday, Attorney General Lynn Fitch issued a statement in response to the passing of SB 2652, a law that establishes the Mississippi Vulnerable Person Abuse Registry.

In her statement, Fitch emphasized the importance of safeguarding vulnerable adults, stating that it is our duty to protect them from abuse, neglect and exploitation. She expressed concern for the victims who place their trust in those who are meant to care for them, only to have it betrayed.

“Much like our duty to protect children from predators, we must do all we can to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly and other adults who are vulnerable to abuse. My office investigates and prosecutes crimes of abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable adults, and it can be heartbreaking to see how their trust is so often betrayed by those who are meant to care for them,” said Fitch in her statement.

The new law is similar to the sex offender registry, and requires individuals who have been convicted of abusing, neglecting, or exploiting a vulnerable person to register with the Vulnerable Person Abuse Registry. Those who fail to do so will face additional penalties.

Fitch sees the registry as a valuable tool for all Mississippians to protect their loved ones, and for law enforcement to ensure justice for vulnerable adults.