Florida Attorney General - Volume 9, Issue 104

Every day, brave men and women risk their lives for the sake of our country. Because of their selfless courage, we are able to live freely. On Monday, we will celebrate Veterans Day by honoring those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

We must never forget the importance of protecting this great nation. Our veterans deserve our respect and recognition for their service. I offer my sincere gratitude to each man and woman who has served our country. It is because of you that we can call America the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Protecting Floridians

Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Assists in Arrest of Walton County Resident for Abusing the Elderly
On Thursday, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the Walton County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Walton County resident for abusing the elderly. Frances O. Howell, owner and administrator of Howell House Assisted Living Facilities, was taken into custody after an investigation revealed that she put an elderly fall risk resident in a standing position and removed the resident’s chair allowing the resident to fall to the floor.

Frances O. Howell was charged with one count of abuse of the elderly or disabled, a third degree felony. If convicted, she could receive up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines. This case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, William “Bill” Eddins, State Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit.

Events

Attorney General Bondi joined Matthew Durrell at Largo High School to discuss the dangers of drinking and driving.

In 1996, Attorney General Bondi prosecuted Matthew Durrell for DUI manslaughter when he was 18, and he was sentenced to 20 years in prison.