As we approach the end of a very busy and productive 2023, we take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve undertaken throughout the year, considering both the achievements and challenges that have shaped our path.
Below are some of the highlights of our year at SOSS.
Legislation
We shared our five objectives with Texas legislators:
- Visitors to senior living establishments sign in and wear name tags while on properties.
- On-site employees and contract employees have background checks.
- Management shares criminal activity occurring at properties with residents.
- Law enforcement has access to residents when conducting investigations.
- Forced arbitration clauses are removed from leases for personal injury cases.
HB 1100 passed the Texas House of Representatives with three of our five objectives; on-site employees have background checks, management shares criminal activity with residents and law enforcement has access to residents.
Although HB 1100 wasn’t granted a Senate hearing and died at the end of the session, SOSS is pleased more legislators and staff across Texas know the story of a serial killer entering independent senior living properties numerous times.
We look forward to continuing our work in Austin in January 2025!
Dallas County Medical Examiner Protocol
In November 2021, Dallas County Medical Examiner Dr. Jeffrey Barnard stated under oath in a Dallas County courtroom that his office didn’t conduct autopsies when the decedent was over the age of 65 as it would overwhelm his office to do so.
SOSS is pleased to announce that age is no longer a factor for the Dallas County Medical Examiner’s office. All deaths with criminal activity will result in an autopsy.
A Long Wait Concludes
Collin County families waited over ten months for District Attorney Greg Willis to announce he would not pursue any homicide trials for the nine victims in his jurisdiction.
A few weeks after this announcement, serial killer Billy Chemirmir was murdered by his cellmate.
All appeals have been dismissed. Families are now able to request details of their loved ones’ investigations.
Education & Awareness
We are thankful for the coverage we have received and opportunities to share our experiences.
Glenn Beck hosted MJ Jennings on his national show in October.
In June, SOSS took the stage at the Texas Police Academy Alumni Association, and in October, we had the honor of presenting at the North Texas Crime Commission, in addition to participating in various other gatherings throughout the year. The heartfelt support expressed during these events is genuinely meaningful to us.
Does Your Organization Need a Speaker?
SOSS would love to address your group and raise awareness about security challenges and vulnerabilities in senior living, provide insights on what to look for when considering an establishment, and discuss our legislative work in Austin. Please reach out to Loren Smith at loren@adairservices.com or Shannon Dion at sgdion@msn.com. Our rates are reasonable – no charge!
SOSS Foundation
Contributions to our newly established SOSS Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, qualify for tax deductions. These funds will be directed towards our educational initiatives, specifically aimed at enhancing awareness of vulnerabilities in senior living.
Additionally, we maintain our SOSS 501(c)4 account, dedicated to supporting our legislative endeavors. It’s important to note that donations to this account are not eligible for tax deductions.
As you assess your year-end giving, we ask you to consider supporting Secure Our Seniors’ Safety through either our educational and awareness initiatives or our legislative efforts. Your support plays a crucial role in fortifying the safety and well-being of our senior community.
We are working on getting this new option up on the site, so be on the lookout for an email in the coming days!
Don’t Forget!
Join us April 22, 2024 at Brookhaven Country Club in Dallas for our SOSS Golf Tournament.
If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!
Wishing each and every one of you a joyous Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a wonderful New Year! May you cherish precious moments with your loved ones during this festive season.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to you for your steadfast support, and we eagerly anticipate enhancing senior security in the coming year, 2024.
Your Support is Needed
We thank you for your continued support while we’re working hard to ensure that what happened to our loved ones doesn’t happen to yours.
Any support goes a long way, so please consider donating today.