In 1989, the Ventura County District Attorney's Office became the first office in California to successfully introduce D.N.A. "genetic fingerprinting" evidence in a criminal case.


 

Release Date: December 4, 2007

Contact:

Theresa Pollara, Senior Deputy District Attorney

(805) 654-2505

 

District Attorney Gregory Totten announced today the arraignment of Kenneth Morton (DOB 1/3/57) of Oxnard . Morton is charged with two counts of violating PC 368(b)(1) elder abuse, a great bodily injury enhancement under PC 368(a)(2), and one count of violating PC 597(b) animal cruelty. Bail is set at $100,000.

 

The complaint charges that the defendant, while acting as a caretaker for the 71-year-old victim, threw the victim's dog against a piece of furniture, broke the victim's arm, and knowingly caused the victim mental suffering.

 

The case has been scheduled for a preliminary hearing on December 14, 2007.

 

If convicted of all charges, the defendant could be sentenced to prison for four years.

 

The District Attorney's Office is committed to the vigorous prosecution of all those who victimize the elderly. If you suspect physical, emotional or financial abuse of an elder adult, please contact the District Attorney's Office or your local police agency to file a report.