A former resident at the Envoy Nursing Home in Staunton, VA, has pleading guilty to sexually molesting a fellow resident, an elderly woman. Charles Williams, who is 70 years old, is heading to prison for a year; he entered his guilty plea to sexual assault in early December. Williams was not the only predator uncovered at Envoy; in October, two employees of the nursing home were charged with similar crimes.
Locally, a Staunton based television station (WHSV) sent a reporter to the town’s Senior Center, to find out what’s being done to prevent future elder abuse. Over a year ago, the Staunton Senior Center started a program to prevent elderly abuse in the area; the program is teaching families what to notice and monitor in the care of their elderly family and loved ones. Some signs (bruising, bleeding) are obvious, others are difficult to see: dehydration and malnourishment take time to develop symptoms, and anxiety and withdrawal can also be slow to show themselves, as a pattern. All are indications of possible abuse, and/or neglect.
If your elderly relative confides in you that they are being ill-treated, whether in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or home-care situation, immediately tell the proper authorities. Especially in nursing homes, patients are very vulnerable to abuse, and have little recourse on their own; family and friends must be the advocates. If you strongly suspect abuse, don’t hesitate to contact the police and a qualified attorney. Recent trends have seen people hiring private investigators to monitor the rooms of patients; installing hidden cameras is a powerful way to pursue justice.
More than 30% of nursing homes in the country experience some form of resident abuse. If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a nursing home, contact Mike Agruss Law, at 312-224-4695 for a free consultation. Mike Agruss Law, represents victims of nursing home abuse and neglect throughout Illinois. We will handle your case quickly, advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you. This litigation strategy will provide you with the best possible compensation.
Plus, Mike Agruss Law, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire our firm—just the opportunity to seek justice. Protect your loved one’s rights by contacting us today.
