On June 7th, 2024, the Christian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office hosted the inaugural Elder/Vulnerable Multi-Disciplinary Team Meeting (MDT). Members from the prosecutor’s office, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the Christian County Sheriff’s Department, the Ozark Police Department, the Nixa Police Department, the Ozark Senior Center and Burrell Behavioral Health convened to discuss how to help the most vulnerable in our community.

The mission of the newly formed Elder/Vulnerable MDT is to develop a professional team committed to protecting and improving the lives of elders and adults with disabilities within our community. The vision is NO MORE VICTIMS.

As discussed in the meeting, by 2030 the senior population will reach 72 million people (20% of the US population) and 1/5 of all Missourians will be 65 and older. By gathering and sharing information, Elder/Vulnerable MDT members will: understand the roles of fellow agencies, reduce trauma and duplication of services to victims, network to collaborate creatively for victims, improve prosecution outcomes and provide greater awareness of and access to services for victims.

The Christian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office recognizes we cannot do this work alone and would like to thank all the participants for their willingness to assist the most vulnerable in our community. For more information please contact Dawn Kloba or Julie Harlan, Victim Advocates.