Woman Freezes to Death at Illinois Nursing Home - The Investigation Continues
We discussed the tragic death of Sara Wentworth in our previous blogs.
An investigation into Ms. Wentworth's tragic death has yielded some interesting information: a handwritten note hanging in the nurses' station reminding facility staff to always check the outside courtyard if a door security alarm sounds. Was this note always posted?
It is alleged that a 23 year old CNA turned offf the alarm, which is next to the posted note, and continued to watch television without thoroughly checking to see if anyone had exited the building. Ms. Wentworth wore an electronic ankle braclet that would sound an alarm if she exited any of the four doors - three of which lead to the courtyard. To thoroughly check, a facility staff member would have to walk down a 52 foot hallway, turn, and continue another 30 feet or so to look into the courtyard. Had someone followed procedure that night, Ms. Wentworth would have been seen and she might be alive today.
Authorities allege that staff panicked after finding Ms. Wentworth outside approximately one hour later and then conspired to make it look like she died naturally in her bed. Four female employees are being investigated for possible criminal charges relating to obstruction of jusice or criminal neglect. Charges could be filed as early as next week.
The Terry Law Firm is experienced in handling cases of nursing home abuse and neglect. Please contact us at 1 (888) 317-2525 or visit us at www.nursinghomejustice.com.
