complaint·April 6, 2023

On the allegation that ‘Staff abused residents in care’; it is the complainant’s concern that the residents are being abused possibly physically, due to complainant hearing screams from a resident, possibly being hit, while screaming and banging was also heard. To investigate the complaint, on 03/22/2023, the LPA conducted collateral interviews about the incident witnessed by the public. The interviews revealed that staff #1(S1) was observed forcefully pulling R1, and trying to pull R1 into the facility’s front yard. Both, S1 and R1 were observed outside the perimeter fence of the facility, where R1 was holding on to one of the pillars of the fence, and S1 was observed pulling R1 aggressively. Additionally, it was observed that S1 pulled R1 into the front yard, and R1 fell to the ground, causing R1’s pants to fall half-way down. S1 was eventually able to pull R1 back inside the facility. The LPA interviewed the Administrator, and the interview revealed that the Administrator was informed by S1 about the incident of R1 attempts to elope the facility. Per the administrator, R1 eloped the facility through the side gate, and when the S1 noticed that R1 had exited the front gate, S1 attempted to bring back R1 into the facility. The Administrator stated that R1 fell while attempting to elope. Based on the information obtained through interviews, there is sufficient evidence to support the allegation that staff violated R1’s personal rights by forcefully restraining R1 to prevent R1 from eloping from the facility, causing the fall and potential bruising on R1. Therefore, the allegation is deemed Substantiated at this time. The following deficiencies were observed (See LIC 9099-D.) and cited from the California Code of Regulations, Title 22 and California Health and Safety Code. Failure to correct the deficiencies may result in civil penalties. Citations were issued. Exit interview was conducted with Administrator on the phone, and the facility representative signed the report. A copy of the report and Appeal Rights were issued.