When families in New Mexico and across the country place their family members in a long-term care facility, they have likely spent a great deal of time considering their needs and how those needs are best met. The decision is typically only made with the belief that nursing home facilities will not only provide the care that their patients need but will also ensure that they are protected. Unfortunately, a man in another state recently pleaded guilty to accusations that he assaulted a female patient at a facility that employed him.
The case involved the 70-year-old defendant and an 86-year-old woman who was a resident in a memory care unit. The man reportedly worked on the facility’s custodial staff. Another member of the staff is said to have told members of management about abuse. Management apparently notified police of the accusations.
The man was ultimately fired from his position after an investigation. After his plea to accusations of inappropriate touching the woman, he was sentenced to one year with a recommendation that it be served on home confinement. As part of the sentencing, he was ordered to have no contact with any witnesses in the case, the victim or her family.
When nursing home abuse occurs, victims are often left facing long term implications that could ultimately have a significant financial impact. If negligence played a part in the abuse of a resident, filing a lawsuit against those who have responsibility might be an appropriate response. An attorney with working knowledge of nursing homes and the laws surrounding them can help victims in New Mexico of such treatment and their families determine the best course of action for their individual situation.
