When we hear of someone being charged with the crime of elder abuse, it might conjure images of residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and those who are charged with their care. It might also conjure thoughts of a family member abusing or neglecting their elderly relatives. Depending on the jurisdiction, merely striking an elderly person or attacking them verbally can be charged as elder abuse. A recent case that has made national headlines involves the beating of a 92-year-old man. ABC 7 News reports on the story of how the perpetrator of the crime is being charged with both attempted murder and elder abuse.
30-year-old Laquisha Jones was charged last Thursday with attempted murder and elder abuse.
The charges stem from a July 4th beating in which Jones attacked 92-year-old Rudolfo Rodriguez near the corner of 118th Street and Central Avenue.
A witness, who managed to record the aftermath of the attack, said that Rodriguez passed Jones on the sidewalk and the woman got angry. The witness then reported that Jones pushed Rodriguez down and began bashing him in the head with a concrete brick.
Rodriguez says that he did not do anything to warrant such an attack. Sheriff’s officials are also investigating whether or not several young men, who were also present during the attack, had any role in the crime.
Witnesses also reportedly told authorities that they heard one of the attackers say “go back to Mexico” during the attack.
Rodriguez is a legal citizen of the United States but often travels to Mexico to visit family. He was visiting family members in Willowbrook at the time of the attack. Despite his injuries, Rodriguez has stated that he wants the law to take its course and he holds no resentment for Jones.
