NY Attorney General Launches Investigation into Guardianship Agencies

The New York Attorney General, Letitia James, has launched an investigation into several guardianship organizations following a ProPublica investigation that revealed neglect and financial exploitation of vulnerable elderly New Yorkers.

The Probe:

The investigation, led by the AG's charities bureau, focuses on approximately half a dozen organizations responsible for managing the health and finances of hundreds of individuals deemed incapable of self-care. The inquiry was prompted by a ProPublica series which highlighted cases of neglect, abuse, and financial exploitation by some guardians.

Key Findings from ProPublica's Investigation:

• Insufficient Oversight: The system lacks adequate oversight, with limited examiner resources to review the care of over 17,000 wards. Annual assessments can take years to complete, delaying crucial intervention in cases of neglect or abuse.
• NY Guardianship Services (NYGS): ProPublica's reporting highlighted NYGS's failure to meet the needs of numerous clients, including instances of placing individuals in substandard living conditions while still collecting fees. In one case, a judge ordered NYGS to repay a ward $5,400 due to minimal services provided.
• Lack of Transparency: ProPublica found that NYGS, while presenting itself as a non-profit, hadn't registered as such with state and federal authorities.

Impact and Future Actions:

The investigation is not the first time the Attorney General's office has scrutinized the guardianship system. A previous investigation of Integral Guardianship Services resulted in reforms and the group's eventual closure, with some of its employees later involved in other guardianship agencies that are now under investigation. The current investigation comes amidst increased pressure from court officials, legislators and advocacy groups for system reform, including proposals for increased funding to support a statewide network of non-profits and a new independent public guardian agency. The outcome of the investigation and potential legislative changes remain to be seen.