Nursing home abuse charges filed against employee who may have assaulted 100 patients
A troubling story about a case of nursing home abuse in Ohio highlights the importance of facilities investigating reports of suspicious behavior by their employees. Former nursing home worker John Riems has been charged with raping and assaulting a paralyzed male patient, and according to police he indicates that he may have assaulted as many as 100 patients. Former co-workers report that he was known to spend extended periods of time in residents rooms with the doors closed and was also known to have a temper and verbally abused patients.
>>INFORMATION: Nursing Home Sexual Abuse
The charges against the night-side nurse stem from an alleged sexual assault which occurred at Concord Care and Rehabilitation Home near Cleveland, Ohio. Although Riems has pled not guilty to the charges, he told police that he may have assaulted as many as 100 patients over his 22 year career at different Ohio nursing homes.
Former co-workers indicate that Riems was a very quiet man, but was known for lashing out at residents. They said that he would yell at them, slam his fists into equipment and throw charts. Residents also indicated to other nursing home employees that they were uncomfortable with him being in their room, and some would refuse medication just to keep him away from them.
One of the most disturbing statements comes from a former nurses aid at Concord Care, who indicated that Riems was known to spend long periods to time behind closed doors in patients’ rooms, sometimes for as long as an hour at a time. The co-worker reported the unusual behavior to the nursing home’s management, but apparently no steps were taken to investigate his actions or protect residents from the abusive behavior.
Nursing homes are supposed to be a safe place for the sick, ill and elderly to live and receive needed care. It is the responsibility of the nursing home owners, managers and staff to make sure that the proper care is provided and to prevent any threats to the safety of residents which could be posed by employees, visitors and other residents. This requires that they recognize signs of nursing home abuse and neglect, and react appropriately to prevent any harm to residents.
>>INFORMATION: Signs of Nursing Home Assault
NURSING HOME ABUSE LAWYERS
The lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent victims of nursing home abuse and neglect throughout the United States. To review a potential claim on behalf of a friend, family member or yourself, request a free case evaluation.
