June 6, 2021 | Nursing Home Abuse
The Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control investigated allegations of elder abuse at a northern Kentucky hospital and prosecuted four individuals connected to the crime. After completing the investigation, the Attorney General’s Office announced that former hospital employees pleaded guilty to the charges they faced and received jail sentences.
According to legal documents, two registered nurses and two certified nursing assistants assisted each other in abusing one of their patients in the Behavioral Health Unit. These staff members improperly restrained the older adult by placing two thirty-five-pound therapeutic water bags on the patient and some furniture around their medical recliner chair. They left the patient there for around fifteen hours.
Three of the defendants pleaded guilty to reckless abuse or neglect of an adult. This is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to twelve months in jail. They received the maximum twelve-month jail sentence. They were also forced to forfeit their professional licenses and must remain on the Caregiver Misconduct Registry for seven years. They agreed to assist the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in resolving the administrative case associated with their offense.
A month or so later, the last defendant also pleaded guilty to reckless abuse or neglect of an adult and agreed to forfeit their professional license. They also received a sentence of twelve months in jail.
Elder Abuse: A Common Problem in the United States
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first instance of elder abuse. According to statistics, around one out of every ten adults at least 60 years of age have experienced some type of abuse. Additionally, only one in 24 victims report the incident to law enforcement.
Older adults are more susceptible to physical, emotional, and other forms of abuse because they’re seen as vulnerable. Caregivers typically target nursing home residents, physically disabled individuals, and people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. They can’t defend themselves against an attack or remember what someone did to them. It’s much easier for abusers to get away with what they’ve done if they victimize the elderly community.
Seek Justice for Your Loved One
At Minner Vines Moncus Injury Lawyers, our team of lawyers has represented clients throughout Kentucky for decades. We believe in holding people accountable for their wrongdoing and helping victims recover from their injuries. We fight for the rights of our clients and seek the compensation necessary to help them heal.
We aim to provide dependable customer service to every person who walks through our office doors. Our legal team is available 24/7 to take your call when you need us most. You will be our top priority as we’re working to meet your needs and reach a favorable outcome in your case.
Contact Our Nursing Home Abuse Law Firm in Lexington Today To Get More Information
If your loved one suffered abuse at the hands of a nurse, caregiver, or someone else they trust, do not hesitate to contact Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC. We can review the case and determine if we can take on the negligent party and pursue the justice your loved one deserves. We’ll be your advocate and remain in your corner until the end. Call us for a free case evaluation with a nursing home abuse lawyer or contact us online.
Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC
325 W Main St #210, Lexington, KY 40507
(859) 550-2900