Home for Disabled People Closed After Years of Abuse and Neglect

A home for people with severe disabilities has been closed after years of accusations of rapes and abuse. The last of the Carlton Palms residents moved to a new home and the doors were closed according to state officials.

Nearly 200 residents were moved to community homes where it is believed that the people will be healthier and happier. The institution had been plagued for years with violence, abuse, and death. Carlton Palms was the only institute in Central Florida that was licensed to take care of residents with severe behavioral and intellectually disabled issues.

Exploitation and Neglect of Developmentally Disabled People

No part of society is more vulnerable to neglect, abuse, and exploitation than the elderly and developmentally disabled population. People with disabilities, just like everyone else, deserve to be treated with compassion and dignity, but that doesn’t always happen. Sometimes, it is even the people that are left in charge of caring for these people that are the ones that end up inflicting the most harm. That’s why these individuals deserve an unwavering and strong advocate.

This type of exploitation, neglect, and abuse can occur in the form of physical abuse or neglect, verbal abuse, and sexual abuse just to name a few. This cruel treatment can happen in group homes, by in-home care providers, adult day care centers, and other facilities. That’s why it is important that you know the signs of neglect and abuse.

Signs of Abuse and Neglect in People with Disabilities

Neglect of a disabled person may result in starvation, over or under medication, dehydration, lack of personal hygiene, and unsanitary living conditions. These neglected individuals may not have necessary things such as heat, air conditioning, electricity, running water, and the medical care and attention they need.

Signs of abuse may include minor injuries such as scratches, cuts and bruises, but may also include larger injuries such as burns, bed sores, and broken bones. These injuries may also be the result of inappropriate confinement, sexual misconduct, rape, and psychological or verbal abuse.

Exploitation of a disabled individual can result in loss of their income, property, and money. Exploitation is the misuse of resources that belong to a disabled person for another person’s monetary or personal benefit. This may include taking Social Security or Supplemental Security Income checks, taking property, misusing a checking account, or misusing or taking other resources.

In many of the situations above, the disabled person will become ill and/or isolated because they don’t have someone that is able to and willing to help meet some of their most basic needs. That’s where a personal injury attorney comes into play.

Placing Responsibility Where It Belongs

If you or a loved one is suffering from neglect, exploitation, or abuse, it is important to understand that you are not at fault. There are people, however, that should be held responsible for such horrendous treatment. These caregivers who claim to love you or your loved one have betrayed your trust and must be held accountable.

The attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez in Boca Raton will investigate your suspicions of neglect and abuse and take the necessary actions needed to confront the responsible party. If the allegations are founded, we will work to get your or your loved one the compensation that they deserve for such terrible treatment. Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Resource:

miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article219613345.html