A certified nurse’s aid and a dietary technician in an upstate New York nursing home have been charged with Petit Larceny (a class A Misdemeanor) and Possession of Stolen Property (a class A Misdemeanor). The two employees allegedly stole the engagement ring of an 89 year-old resident and pawned the ring for $15.00.
According to reports, the ring was given to the 89 year-old resident by her husband in 1940. The incident allegedly occurred at Bethany Gardens Skilled Living facility on October 6, 2008.
Attorney General, Andrew Cuomo explained, “These employees are accused of stealing a personal heirloom with priceless sentimental value from a vulnerable nursing home resident for whom they were supposed to be caring. Allegations like this demonstrate how nursing home patients can be taken advantage of by those entrusted with their care. Whether it is physical abuse or stealing money or personal possessions, my office is taking significant steps to protect New York’s seniors from those who would do them harm.” AG Cuomo has made protecting nursing home residents from elder abuse one of his top priorities.
Website Resources:
State of New York Office of the Attorney General, November 24, 2008.