DPPC director Nancy Alterio details rise in abuse cases against disabled adults

The Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities convened on April 15, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding the protection of adults with disabilities in Massachusetts. Nancy Alterio, the executive director of the Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC), presented alarming statistics that highlight the growing need for protective services in the state.

Alterio reported that the DPPC received nearly 18,000 calls to its 24-hour hotline in fiscal year 2024, with 16,000 of those being reports of abuse and neglect. This marks a significant increase in cases, with projections indicating a 10% rise in abuse reports for the upcoming fiscal year. The DPPC's proactive outreach and education efforts, including a new website and training video series, are believed to contribute to this uptick in reported cases.

The DPPC operates under a "no wrong door" policy, accepting reports of abuse even if they fall outside its jurisdiction. This approach ensures that all allegations are directed to the appropriate state agency, which is crucial for comprehensive protective measures. Alterio emphasized the importance of collaboration with various state departments, including the Department of Developmental Services and the Department of Mental Health, to enhance the effectiveness of investigations and protective services.

A significant focus of the meeting was the DPPC's ongoing efforts to improve its case management system. This upgrade aims to facilitate real-time information sharing among partner agencies, which is essential for timely responses to allegations of abuse. The DPPC currently employs 30 investigators, a number that has increased due to support from the committee and state funding, allowing for more thorough investigations of complex cases involving vulnerable populations.

The DPPC also highlighted its unique Sexual Assault Response (SAR) team, which includes survivors with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This initiative provides peer support and connects victims with specialized trauma services, showcasing a model that has gained national recognition for its effectiveness.

Another key topic was the establishment of an abuser registry, which aims to prevent individuals with a history of abuse from working with vulnerable populations. The registry has already listed over 150 abusers and is expected to expand its scope to include more service providers.

In conclusion, the discussions during the meeting underscored the urgent need for enhanced protective services for adults with disabilities in Massachusetts. With rising reports of abuse and a commitment to improving inter-agency collaboration, the DPPC is taking significant steps to ensure the safety and well-being of this vulnerable population. The committee's ongoing support will be crucial as the DPPC implements these initiatives and addresses the challenges ahead.