Administrator Charged in Nursing Home Druggings
Kern Valley Hospital
We discussed the tragic drugging deaths at Kern Valley Healthcare District's skilled nursing facility in our previous blogs.
In February 2009, three employees of Kern Valley Healthcare District were arrested following a two year investigation. Former Director of Nursing Gwen Hughes, former pharmacist Debbi Hayes, and staff physician Dr. Hoshang Pormir were charged for their alleged roles in the drugging of nursing home residents. In all, twenty-two residents Alzheimer's and dementia residents were given high doses of psychotropic medications to make them tranquil and easier to control. Hughes allegedly ordered drugs for residents who made noise, argued with her, or were otherwise disruptive. Three residents died and one resident was greatly harmed.
Now, Administrator Pamela Ott has been charged with eight felony counts of elder abuse for allowing her staff to forcibly administer psychotropic drugs to residents for convenience. According to California Attorney General Jerry Brown, Ott hired and supervised Hughes and therefore, is responsible for her actions.
The Terry Law Firm is experienced in handling cases of nursing home abuse and neglect. Please contact us with any questions or concerns at (888) 317-2525 or visit us on our website at www.nursinghomejustice.com.
