State Senator Theresa Gavarone (R-Huron) today issued the following statement following reports of an attack on a resident at the Ohio Veterans Home:
"An employee at the Ohio Veterans Home has admitted to sexually assaulting a resident and taking explicit pictures of three residents—people who have served our country in the military.
These actions are deplorable, pure evil. While a person is innocent until proven guilty, the evidence, witness accounts and admission of guilt are damning. The offender needs to be subject to the strongest possible sentence available under law.
These kind of heinous crimes, are the very reasons I supported Senate Bill 58, 'Esther's Law,' allowing residents of nursing homes to install cameras in their rooms to prevent neglect and abuse. Families should be able to monitor their loved ones, at any time, to ensure their safety and health.
Nursing home residents deserve to feel safe and cared for in their facilities and families deserve the peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are safe. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.”
Senate Bill 58 was enacted into law on March 23, 2022.
To report suspected abuse in a nursing home or assisted living facility or by staff of a home care agency, call the State Ombudsman’s Office toll-free at 1-800-282-1206, or contact your regional long-term care ombudsman program.
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