Dakota County protects vulnerable adults from abuse and maltreatment. Social Services takes steps to investigate any report of harm or neglect.
Vulnerable adults are anyone 18 years of age or older who live in an institutional setting (nursing home, hospital or residential facility), receive health services at home or require help in caring or protecting themselves.
Report abuse and maltreatment
To report abuse of a vulnerable adult, call Adult Protection Intake at 651-554-6000. If a person is in immediate danger, call 911 or Crisis Response at 952-891-7171.
When you report abuse, include the following:
- The name and address of the vulnerable adult
- The name and address of the person causing harm
- The date and time of the alleged harm
- Details of what happened
If you give your name as the reporter, your name will be kept confidential. If desired, you may ask to receive a letter stating the results of the investigation.
Definition of adult maltreatment
Adult maltreatment is any physical or emotional act that harms or intends harm; words or gestures that harm or intend harm; forcing a vulnerable adult to perform services for the advantage of another; not providing enough food, clothing, shelter, health care or supervision; and unauthorized use of the vulnerable adult’s money or property.