How to Report Elder Abuse in New Bern, NC

This guide from our experienced elder abuse attorneys explains how to identify elder abuse and the exact steps you can take to report it in New Bern, North Carolina. We’ve also included helpful local resources and what to expect if legal action becomes necessary.

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver or other trusted individual that causes harm or serious risk to an older adult. It can occur at the hands of friends and family members or even by staff at Elder Care Facilities and Nursing Homes.

Understanding the Types of Elder Abuse
Not all abuse is physical—and not all signs are obvious. One of the most important steps in reporting elder abuse is understanding the different forms it can take. Below are the most commonly recognized categories of elder abuse, each of which may require a different response or legal remedy.

Physical Abuse
This involves any use of force that causes bodily harm, pain, or injury. It can include hitting, slapping, shaking, improper restraint, or even overmedication. Warning signs may include unexplained bruises, broken bones, frequent hospital visits, or fearfulness around certain caregivers.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical harm. It includes verbal insults, threats, humiliation, intimidation, isolation, or controlling behavior. Victims may appear withdrawn, anxious, depressed, or unusually quiet when around specific individuals.

Neglect
Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to meet an elder’s basic needs—such as food, hygiene, medication, or safety. It can be intentional or due to carelessness or lack of training. Warning signs include poor hygiene, weight loss, dehydration, untreated medical issues, or unsanitary living conditions.

Financial Exploitation
Financial exploitation of the elderly involves illegally or improperly using an elder’s money, assets, or property. It can range from forging checks and coercing financial decisions to outright theft or fraud. Red flags include unexplained bank withdrawals, missing possessions, unpaid bills, or changes in legal documents.

Sexual Abuse
Though less commonly discussed, sexual abuse is a serious and deeply traumatic form of elder abuse. It includes any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior, particularly when the victim cannot give informed consent. Signs may include bruising, infections, or extreme anxiety around certain individuals.

Abandonment
Abandonment happens when a caregiver who has assumed responsibility for an elder leaves them without arranging for necessary care. This can result in life-threatening situations and may be considered both neglect and criminal behavior, depending on the circumstances.

Each type of abuse carries different warning signs, risk factors, and legal implications. If you suspect any of these forms of mistreatment are occurring, it’s crucial to act quickly—even if you’re not entirely sure. Reporting can help initiate an investigation and potentially save someone from further harm.

Signs of Elder Abuse to Watch For

Elder abuse is not always easy to recognize—especially when the victim is isolated, fearful, or unable to communicate clearly. [Read article on Recognizing The Signs of Elder Abuse] The signs may be subtle or mistaken for normal aging or illness. That’s why it’s important to stay alert and take any concerns seriously. Below are common warning signs that may indicate abuse, neglect, or exploitation:

• Unexplained bruises, burns, or broken bones
Physical injuries that can’t be adequately explained—especially in various stages of healing—may signal physical abuse. Be wary of repeated “accidents,” especially if the caregiver appears evasive when questioned.

• Withdrawal from normal activities or a sudden change in alertness
A noticeable shift in personality, mood, or social engagement could point to emotional abuse or neglect. If a once-active loved one becomes unusually quiet, anxious, or fearful around certain individuals, it’s worth asking why.

• Unusual changes in financial situation
Large or unexplained withdrawals, sudden changes in wills or powers of attorney, unpaid bills despite adequate resources, or missing valuables may all indicate financial exploitation. Elders may be pressured, manipulated, or deceived by someone they trust.

• Poor hygiene, bedsores, or unsafe living conditions
Neglect can manifest in many forms—from a lack of clean clothing and missed medications to dehydration, untreated infections, or hazardous living environments. These are red flags that basic care needs are not being met.

• Caregivers who are verbally aggressive, controlling, or dismissive
Watch for caregivers who speak harshly, restrict communication, refuse to leave the elder alone with others, or dismiss concerns about the elder’s well-being. These behaviors can point to underlying abuse or an effort to conceal it.

If something doesn’t feel right—trust your instincts. You don’t need proof to voice a concern or file a report. When it comes to elder abuse, saying something could be the first step in protecting someone who can’t speak up for themselves.

Reporting Elder Abuse in New Bern and Craven County

If you’re located in or near New Bern, North Carolina, and suspect that an elderly person is being abused, neglected, or financially exploited, it’s important to know where to turn. In Craven County, elder abuse cases are primarily handled by the Adult Protective Services (APS) division of the Department of Social Services (DSS).

You can make a report to Craven County DSS by phone or in person. Trained caseworkers are responsible for investigating reports and coordinating services to protect vulnerable adults from further harm. When necessary, APS can involve law enforcement, medical professionals, or legal services to intervene. 

Contact Information for Craven County Adult Protective Services:
Craven County Department of Social Services
2818 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28562
Phone: (252) 636-4900 (ask for Adult Protective Services)
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
After-hours: Call 911 or local law enforcement for emergency intervention

In addition to APS, you can also contact the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, particularly in cases where immediate danger or criminal activity is suspected. Law enforcement can begin a parallel investigation while APS reviews the situation from a protective services perspective.

For concerns in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, you can reach out to the NC Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which helps resolve complaints and advocate for residents’ rights. The ombudsman serving Eastern North Carolina can assist with complaints involving substandard care, neglect, or mistreatment in licensed facilities.

Be prepared to share:
• The elder’s name and address
• The suspected abuser’s info, if known
• A description of the abuse or neglect
• Any evidence or observations

What Happens After You Report?

Once a report is made, Adult Protective Services will evaluate the case. If they determine there’s cause for concern, they will investigate and take protective action.

Sometimes legal action is necessary—especially when the abuse leads to serious harm or death. In those cases, having an experienced elder abuse lawyer by your side can make all the difference.

How Kellum Law Firm Can Help

Our team has decades of experience helping families in New Bern protect their loved ones and seek justice. We can:

• Advise you on your legal options
• Help gather and document evidence
• Pursue compensation for pain, suffering, or wrongful death
• Represent you in negotiations or court

We have elder abuse attorneys on staff at our New Bern, NC office locations and other locations across the state of North Carolina.

There’s no cost to speak with us, and we’re ready to help.