L’Observateur / September 30, 2000

VACHERIE – In an effort to help prevent crime against senior citizens, the St.

James Parish Sheriff’s Department held it’s third annual Senior Crime Expo Sept. 13. Sheriff Willy Martin called it a success, with 135 seniors attendingthe presentations and dinner.

The seniors met at the west bank reception hall. The purpose of the dinnerwas to receive information on how to protect themselves against criminals who specifically target them. Its wasn’t seen in the past that seniors were aspecific target area, sought out by criminals, said Martin. To prevent crimesagainst seniors, the sheriff’s department began to work specifically with the seniors through Joe Samrow, Triad coordinator for the department. “Thedinner gave seniors the opportunity to compare notes and see that problems are not unique to just them, said Samrow.

Among the speakers were Acadian Ambulance Service Vice-President Steve Kyper, who discussed ambulance procedures. Also, Gerald Falgoust of the St.James Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness assisted in the presentation.

Information about wills, living wills and other legal concerns for seniors was presented by attorney Anthony “Buzzy Nobile of Lutcher. From the BatonRouge Police Department Officer Riley Harbor III spoke directly of crimes against the elderly. Gwen Wilcox of the state insurance department gave atalk on Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs and other insurance options for senior citizens.

The meal was prepared by Lloyd Laurent and Lloyd Edwards, assisted by senior citizen staff members. Door prizes were given away by the sheriff’spersonnel department.

State Reps. Roy Quezaire and Bobby Faucheux were both present to speak tothe group. St. James Parish Hospital brought a display and conducted bloodpressure screening.

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