Virginia law § 18.2-178.1 criminalizes the financial exploitation of vulnerable adults, making it illegal to take or convert their money or property with the intent to permanently deprive them. The law specifies the circumstances for trial venue and provides exemptions for good-faith assistance. Violators are guilty of larceny and subject to criminal penalties.
It involves knowingly taking, obtaining, or converting money or property from a vulnerable adult with the intent to permanently deprive them, using their impairment.
Yes, the law does not apply if the accused acted for the benefit of the vulnerable adult or made a good-faith effort to help manage their finances.
Violators are guilty of larceny, which can result in criminal charges and penalties under Virginia law.
The trial can be held in any county or city where the act was committed, where the accused or vulnerable adult resided, or where the financial loss occurred.