A National Elder Fraud Hotline is being launched by the Justice Department.

The hotline was announced as U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady joined other federal officials in touting a national elder fraud sweep that included four people from the region who are being prosecuted for crimes against seniors, according to a release from Brady’s office.

“Our seniors lived through the Depression, defeated the Axis and the Soviet Union, and built the America we know today. They worked hard and played by the rules their entire lives, and they deserve our respect, thanks and, now, our protection,” Brady said in a statement. “We’re going to do everything in our power to keep our seniors safe in their retirement from fraudsters.”

Those caught in the sweep included Sue O’Neill of Sewickley, who pleaded guilty in November to wire fraud and tax return violations.

O’Neill was the controller for Marco Contractors Inc. and admitted to embezzling about $8.7 million from the Warrendale-based company, which is owned by a person over 60, according to Brady’s office.

Three others — Ronnell Taylor Jr. of Jeannette, Barry Nealer of Pittsburgh and Michael Galanis of Export — were indicted in January on wire fraud conspiracy, charged in a scheme that programmed cellphone numbers used by people who impersonated IRS employees in a scam that targeted senior citizens, according to Brady’s office.

“Americans are fed up with the constant barrage of scams that maliciously target the elderly and other vulnerable citizens,” Attorney General William Barr said in a statement.

The national elder fraud sweep included charges against more than 400 people, according to the Justice Department.

The hotline the department set up, 1-833-372-8311, is staffed by people who can provide personalized support to those who think they may be victims of elder fraud. Case managers will help people contact the appropriate agency to get help.

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