The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive
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4051 Wrongful Death, Abuse and Neglect, and, Sexual Predation...When Autism Is a Consideration
Thursday, July 23, 2009: 1:00 PM-2:15 PM
Marsalis Ballroom AB (Pheasant Run Resort and Conference Center)
MP3
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Throughout history there have been accounts of individuals with "unusual behavioral characteristics" who have perpetrated crimes, from murder to computer hacking. There is now a growing awareness that occasionally the "perpetrators" present symptoms that may be indicative of autism spectrum disorder [ASD]. Individuals with ASD, however, are more apt to be recipients of abuse and/or neglect, and find themselves vulnerable. This presentation will address both crimes against individuals with autism and crimes perpetrated by individuals with autism.
Throughout the course of judicial history there have been numerous accounts of individuals with "mental illness" or "unusual behavioral characteristics" that have perpetrated various criminal acts such as serial crimes; failure to abide by law enforcement directives; and, now, cybercrimes [computer hacking and virus infecting, for example]. There is now a growing awareness that many times the 'perpetrators' who display behavior reflective of some form of 'mental illness' present symptoms that are indicative of Autism Spectrum Disorder [ASD]. Individuals with ASD, however, are more apt to be the recipient of abuse and/or neglect or other crimes against their person and find themselves vulnerable and at risk of being taken advantage of or having their personal freedoms compromised or seriously physically or mentally harmed. This presentation will be audience interactive. We will address crimes perpetrated by individuals with ASD; where recent accounts of serial crimes and cyberspace malfeasence has led to individuals with Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism being convicted. We will also discuss crimes against individuals with ASD; where recent cases have been determined that they have been wrongfully accused and convicted as well as abused or neglected or even murdered. All cases presented by the co-presenters will be those in which they have served as expert witnesses and therefore have intimate knowledge.
Learning Objectives:
- Attendees will be asked to describe cases that they have been involved in where Autism Spectrum Disorder [ASD] has been determined to be a factor and what specific symptoms of ASD might have been at the foundation of the crime
- Attendees will be able to address the numerous behavioral traits associated with ASD that could lead to an individual perpetrating a crime; behavioral trails associated with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bi-Polar Disorder, and/or Scripting
- Attendees will be able to identify the numerous factors that lead to an individual with ASD being abused or neglected or wrongfully charged with a crime such as sexual deviance, murder, or assault.
Content Area: Behavior Issues and Supports
Presenters:
David L. Holmes, Ed.D., BCBS, BCAP
Chairman/ CEO
Lifespan Services, LLC
Dr. David L. Holmes is a Board Certified in Behavioral Science and is a Forensic Examiner. He is the immediate past president and founder of The Eden Family of Services and past chair of the Autism Society's Panel of Professional Advisors.
George Neimann, Ph.D., BCFE
Consultant
Lifespan Services, LLC
Dr. Neimann holds a Ph.D. in neuropsychology and is the Past President and CEO of Bancroft Neurohealth Services. He has held numerous positions in national and international service organizations and currently is a consultant to organizations and individuals with ASD and related disabilities.