Several members of the public used the Jan. 23 Macomb County Board of Commissioners meeting to press elected officials for action on alleged problems in local probate and guardianship practices, asking the board to recommend reforms to protect vulnerable adults and their families.

Speakers including Ted Scarborough and national advocate Jody White described individual cases they characterize as predatory guardianship, alleging forced nursing-home placements, sale of property without meaningful consent and excessive attorney and guardian fees. They asked the board to consider measures such as mandatory oversight of court-appointed guardians and guardian ad litems, protections for advocates and family members from retaliation, review of probate funding and transparent grievance procedures.

What speakers requested: Scarborough urged the board to use its oversight and policy channels to seek reforms — including mandatory oversight of billings and activities of court officers, prevention of forced separations of vulnerable adults without due process, and a transparent complaint process. Jody White said she had encountered obstacles when trying to visit residents in care and described what she characterized as retaliation against advocates who raise concerns.

Complaints about local response: Speakers said they had reported concerns to law enforcement and prosecutorial offices with little apparent redress, and they referenced communications with state officials. One speaker said a cease-and-desist letter was issued in response to a complaint rather than an investigation. Those asking for reforms said they want the board to convene a Government Policy Committee meeting with victims and advocates to review the issues and consider recommendations.

Board response and context: Commissioners did not take immediate formal action on the requests during the Jan. 23 meeting; the items were raised during the public participation portion of the agenda. Commissioners routinely may refer public comment requests to committees or staff for follow-up. Speakers asked explicitly that the board consider steps that would increase oversight and accountability in probate court operations and court-appointed representatives.

Ending: Those raising the issue said they would continue to press for legislative and administrative changes and asked the board to schedule committee consideration so the matter could be reviewed in more detail.