Summary

Although there are many organizations and individuals deeply committed to addressing crime committed against persons with disabilities, these organizations, historically, have implemented their respective efforts independently. Collaboration was not easy, despite the dedication of each individual entity. BPI not only promotes collaboration, it makes it easier through its cross-discipline training programs and thereby provides victims with disabilities the protection and services they need to pursue safe and healthy lives and enables communities to hold offenders criminally accountable for their violence.

As a result of BPI in Massachusetts, adult protective and human services personnel, medical personnel, law enforcement, persons with disabilities, and others receive routine training in how to recognize abuse, report suspicions, and respond effectively to abuse committed against persons with disabilities. In addition, the Department of Developmental Services, Department of Mental Health, and Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission are all required to report criminal activity to the Disabled Persons Protection Commission and to the appropriate district attorney.

The success of BPI has been quantitatively measured. See exhibits 1–4 for BPI's progress since 1999.