Disabled Persons Protection Commission - DPPC

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Braintree, MA
Disabled Persons Protection Commission - DPPC

Protecting adults with disabilities from abuse & neglect through investigation, oversight & awareness

04/09/2026

Changes in the behavioral patterns of an individual with disabilities can be a warning sign of abuse. Cheryl Chan, a mother and advocate for adults with disabilities, reminds us that an individual’s loved ones and caregivers can help identify new or concerning behaviors, serving as a crucial resource for investigators.

Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

03/24/2026

Narrative practice is an important tool that can be used to gain more understanding of an individual's abilities and conversation style. Here, Hampden County Special Victims Unit Forensic Investigator Stephanie Briggs explains how beginning an interview with open-ended, non-leading questions can help to establish a baseline and build rapport. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

02/24/2026

When interviewing survivors with a disability, investigators must be prepared to pivot, redirect, or repeat portions of the interview. This approach requires adaptability to ensure a supportive and effective interview process. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

02/13/2026

DPPC is committed to empowering survivors so they can tell their stories and know that they will be heard and respected. By effectively listening, investigators can make a significant impact on a survivor. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

01/23/2026

The Funnel Model is an effective method for interviewing persons with a disability. It encourages investigators to begin an interview with open-ended questions followed by clarifying questions to gain an understanding of an interviewee’s experiences, perspectives, and communication abilities. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

01/13/2026

Thorough preparation is key to ensuring a successful interview. Elizabeth Scheibel, Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Building Partnerships for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities and Older Adults Initiative (BPI), discusses how Investigators need to have a comprehensive understanding of the case, the victim and their disability as they approach every interview to create a safe and comfortable environment.

Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

12/23/2025

Earlier this year, DPPC Executive Director Nancy Alterio spoke to WBUR about our Abuse is R.E.A.L. campaign and why it’s important to raise awareness about recognizing the signs of abuse.

If you witness concerning behavior, trust your instincts: Know the signs, listen without judgment, ask thoughtful questions and empower the individual to speak up and seek help. Report suspected abuse of adults with disabilities to the Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) 24-hour Hotline 1-800-426-9009. Deaf or Hard of Hearing callers, please use Video Relay Service (VRS) or MassRelay at 711.

12/16/2025

Each survivor has their own story, and investigators should keep in mind the many complex forms of abuse that can take place, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional/verbal abuse, financial abuse, and neglect. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

12/04/2025

Disabled Persons Protection Commission Sexual Assault Response (SAR) Peer Support Leader Patty Quartieri received the 2025 Sandra Houghton Self-Advocate of the Year Award from Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong (MASS) at the 27th Annual MASS Self-Advocacy Conference. Patty was selected for her decades of self-advocacy work in the community and at the State House, and for her years of mentoring and empowering other self-advocates to embody leadership and persistence through positive actions. Patty is a true changemaker and all of us at DPPC are so proud to call her our friend and colleague!

12/03/2025

On October 29, 2025, Disabled Persons Protection Commission Sexual Assault Response (SAR) Navigator Jackie Perez received the Manuel Carballo Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service at the 41st annual Employee Performance Recognition Program Awards led by Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. In this season of thanks, DPPC is especially grateful for Jackie who works tirelessly to support sexual assault victims with disabilities.

08/06/2025

Throughout the interview process, investigators must give survivors the time they need to process and respond to each question. As DPPC Peer Support Leader Patty Quatieri explains in this video, patience and active listening are key components for a successful interview.

Address

300 Granite Street
Braintree, MA
02184

Website

http://dppcmass.gov/

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