San Jose – 69-year-old Enid Acevedo was arrested following the death of a dependent adult under her care. 
Investigation and Arrest
On May 17, 2025, San Jose Police learned of a death at a home on Mastic Avenue north of Alma Avenue and east of First Street. Upon arrival, officers found the man unconscious in a severely emaciated condition. An autopsy later determined the man’s death was due to neglect. Detectives and undercover officers then arrested the man’s caretaker, Acevedo, on March 18, 2026 in Gilroy.
Elder Abuse Laws in California
One of the primary statutes governing elder abuse cases is California Penal Code §368, which makes it a crime to abuse, neglect, or financially exploit a dependent person aged 18-64 with restrictions.
Under this law, individuals can face criminal charges for:
- Willfully causing or permitting unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering
- Neglecting the basic needs
- Financial exploitation or fraud targeting dependent individuals
- Endangerment that could cause injury or death
Depending on the severity of the conduct, dependent adult abuse charges may be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or felonies. In cases involving neglect, the law often focuses on whether a caregiver failed to provide necessary care, including food, medical attention, supervision, or safe living conditions
Civil Liability and Dependent Adult Abuse Claims
When individuals suffer harm due to neglect or exploitation, families may also pursue civil claims under the California Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (Welfare and Institutions Code §15600 et seq.). Such claims may arise when a caregiver or facility fails to adequately meet patients’ needs, maintains unsafe living conditions, or financially exploits their patients.
Civil actions can seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages if a resident dies due to neglect
Importantly, California law provides enhanced remedies in certain dependent adult abuse cases, including attorney’s fees and additional damages when misconduct involves recklessness, oppression, fraud, or malice.
Protecting Vulnerable Adults
Families placing loved ones in care should consider the following:
- Verify facility licensing through the California Community Care Licensing database.
- Review inspection reports and complaint history before placement.
- Visit regularly and observe living conditions.
- Watch for warning signs of neglect, including weight loss, untreated medical issues, or sudden behavioral changes.
Any concerns can be reported to Adult Protective Services (APS) or local law enforcement.
Seeking Accountability for Dependent Adult Abuse
If your loved one has experienced neglect, abuse, or exploitation from a caretaker such as this incident involving Enid Acevedo, The Sehat Law Firm can help evaluate your legal options. You can contact the firm at (949) 825-5200 or submit an inquiry through the contact form at the bottom of the website to discuss your situation.
Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal or medical advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary and any referenced here may not apply to your situation. This article was created from secondary sources and so may not be completely accurate. If you have any concerns, please contact us, and we’ll update or remove the post as needed.
