Virginia law § 18.2-369 prohibits responsible persons from abusing or neglecting vulnerable adults, with penalties escalating based on the severity of harm. Violations can result in misdemeanors or felonies, especially if serious injury or death occurs. The law defines abuse and neglect and clarifies who qualifies as a responsible person.
Abuse includes knowing and willful conduct causing physical injury or pain, or the wrongful use of physical restraint or confinement as punishment or for convenience.
Penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor for first offenses without serious injury, to a Class 3 felony if the abuse results in death, with more severe penalties for subsequent offenses or serious injury.
A responsible person is someone who has legal or voluntary responsibility for the care, custody, or control of a vulnerable adult.
Yes, knowing and willful neglect that results in injury or endangers the adult's safety is punishable by criminal penalties, including felony charges for severe cases.