PITTSBURGH, PA – A case of alleged abuse of a resident at a nursing home in Pennsylvania was detailed in a report by KDKA-TV.
Two employees of the home, Lamont Mitchell and Joseph Love, are each charged with abuse of a care dependent person and neglect of a care dependent person. The incident took place at Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms in Bridgeville, in the Pittsburgh area, and was captured on a surveillance camera.
According to the report, police observed Mitchell and Love entering the room of an 85-year-old victim and antagonizing him. The two are seen on camera “smacking the victim in the head, holding him down by his wrists and, at one point, removing his pants. Lamont is then seen forcefully grabbing the victim off the couch and dragging him on the floor before placing him in a wheelchair and wheeling him out of his room.”
Employees of the nursing home told KDKA-TV that the Mitchell and Love remained on the schedule for three days after the incident before action was taken. The two have now been fired, according to the company that manages the facility, Priority Life Care.
The company released a statement that read in part, “”Following our established protocols, we took immediate action: the employees in question were suspended pending a thorough investigation and as warranted by the findings of that investigation, their employment was terminated.”
The report quotes the reaction of Maureen Holzer, whose 97-year-old mother is one of the residents of Celebration Villa.
“All I gotta say is it better not happen to my mom and I’ve spoken up for other people too. Nothing like what you’re saying,” Holzer said. She went on to emphasize the importance of families visiting the nursing home on a regular basis to make sure their loves ones are getting the proper care from staffers.
“So I think when you show up, they work better with the patients,” Holzer said. “Our little hallway, we know everyone, we know the family members coming in, so if they were to see something, they’re going to stop it too, then call me.”
Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Cases like the one in Pennsylvania are all too common at nursing homes across the county, affecting many vulnerable seniors. Nursing home abuse happens when caregivers or staff members harm, distress, or traumatize elderly residents through their actions or lack of care. Abuse comes in many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial mistreatment, as well as neglect and abandonment.
At FreeNursingHomeAbuseReport.com, our mission is to provide free, compassionate support and resources to those who suspect their loved ones may be victims of nursing home abuse. We understand the emotional toll that this devastating situation can take on families, and we are here to help you every step of the way, at no cost to you.
By filling out our simple online form, you can request a free, confidential consultation with our experienced team. We will listen to your concerns, provide guidance on documenting and reporting the abuse, and connect you with local resources and legal support.
