Release Date: April 17, 2008

Contact:   Theresa Pollara, Senior Deputy District Attorney

(805) 654-2505

District Attorney Gregory D. Totten announced today that Samuel Kaller (DOB: 11/13/59) of Thousand Oaks , has been charged with felony elder endangerment and delaying and resisting police officers.

According to police reports, Kaller verbally and physically abused his 82-year-old mother in a grocery store. His actions were witnessed by other shoppers and store employees, who reported the abuse to police. During the investigation by Ventura County sheriff's deputies, the Kaller residence was found to have unhealthy conditions; it lacked sanitation and was filled with debris. Kaller resisted deputies' orders, causing them to draw their less lethal weapons. Kaller forced his mother in front of him to shield himself. If convicted, Mr. Kaller faces five years in prison.

The month of May is Elder and Dependant Adult Abuse Awareness Month, during which the county hopes to raise public awareness of abuse and neglect of elder and dependant adults and to educate the public of resources available to prevent such abuses. The county also offers many resources to people who feel overwhelmed by the care of elder or dependent adults. Services are available by contacting Adult Protective Services, Behavioral Health, or the Area Agency on Aging.

The District Attorney's Office - Elder Abuse Unit urges citizens to seek these services before conditions rise to the level of criminal culpability or endanger your loved one. Community members are urged to contact the District Attorney's Office or your local police agency to file a report if you suspect physical, emotional or financial abuse of an elder or dependant adult.