A trial is underway in Battlefield, Canada (Saskatchewan province) over allegations a disabled woman in a group home was abused by an employee. In early January, the accused woman took the stand in her own defense, in Battleford Court of Queen’s Bench. Ashley Marie Johnson, 25, stands accused of putting lemon juice in Sylene Piatt’s eye and forcing her to chew whole peppercorns, on March 26 of 2011; Johnson denies both. Piatt is 22 and severely disabled, requiring constant care; she has cerebral palsy, developmental delays and a seizure disorder—she cannot walk or speak.
Johnson is charged with abuse and administering a noxious substance. Her co-worker, Tracy Erhardt, testified she saw Johnson pour lemon juice in Piatt’s eye, rub Piatt’s eyes with hand sanitizer and force her to eat whole peppercorns; Johnson denied all allegation, saying Erhardt was angry at her for betraying a confidence. The defendant admitted she used ReaLemon juice as part of a diet she was on, but said she didn’t use it on Piatt; she also said the hand sanitizer incident was innocent in nature, the intention was to keep Piatt from putting her hands in her mouth. And as to the peppercorns, Johnson denied even being in the room when Erhardt said it happened. The Canadian government lawyers and the defense both made their closing arguments on Thursday, January 10th; a verdict is forthcoming.
More than 30% of nursing homes in the United States 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.
