DOTHAN, Ala. — A Dothan man is behind bars in Houston County following allegations of elder abuse. Benjamin Patrick Heckerman, 33, was arrested on Sunday, January 26, after a lengthy investigation led by the Houston County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
The investigation into the alleged assault of an elderly individual began on December 15, 2023, when HCSO investigators received reports of the abuse. Authorities worked to gather evidence, and on December 18, they obtained an arrest warrant for Heckerman.
After several weeks of searching, Heckerman was located and taken into custody on January 26. He is facing one count of elder abuse in the second degree, a charge that is considered a felony in the state of Alabama.
Details surrounding the specifics of the alleged abuse remain limited, as the HCSO has yet to release additional information. However, the department has indicated that more details will be shared on Tuesday, January 30.
Heckerman is currently being held at the Houston County Jail on a $30,000 bond. The investigation into the case is ongoing, and law enforcement officials have emphasized that further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Elder abuse is a serious crime, and the HCSO is committed to ensuring that those responsible for such offenses are held accountable.
