Dementia Patient Allegedly Sexually Assaulted at Federal Way Senior Living Facility Sparks Outrage

Federal Way, WA – A Federal Way senior living facility is under scrutiny after a resident with dementia was allegedly sexually assaulted multiple times. Ryan Harney claims his mother, Pamela, who uses a wheelchair and has the mental capacity of a young child, was attacked by another resident at Brookdale Assisted Living Facility in Federal Way.

Details of the Alleged Sexual Assault of Senior Living Patient

Harney received a shocking call from Brookdale staff on May 13, 2023, informing him of the first assault. According to the lawsuit, another resident with diminished cognitive capacity wheeled Harney’s mother into a room and sexually assaulted her. The incident was reportedly captured on camera.

Assisted Living Facility’s Response to Subsequent Sexual Assault

Harney expressed dismay at Brookdale’s reaction to the initial assault. He claims staff members described the incident inappropriately, stating that both parties appeared to be “enjoying it.” This response was particularly upsetting given his mother’s limited mental capacity.

Despite promises to monitor the alleged perpetrator, Harney reports that his mother was assaulted again by the same individual less than a week later.

Legal Action and Concerns Amid Allegations of Elder Sex Abuse

Questions arise about Brookdale’s judgment regarding consent. The victim’s inability to give consent due to her cognitive state emphasizes the facility’s security process. The frequency of these reported incidents has raised concerns about potential systemic issues at the facility.

Harney is speaking out to prevent similar incidents from occurring. He stressed the urgent need for changes in how such facilities operate and protect vulnerable residents.

Brookdale’s Statement

In response to the allegations, Brookdale Senior Living issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to resident well-being while declining to comment on pending litigation.
As this story develops, it highlights the critical need for robust safeguards and oversight in senior care facilities to protect vulnerable residents from abuse.

Legal Recourse for Elder Abuse Victims

In the aftermath of disturbing allegations at a Federal Way senior living facility, questions about resident safety and legal accountability have surged to the forefront. To address these pressing concerns, we spoke with Mike Pfau, a seasoned Washington attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases. Pfau offers valuable information on the legal rights of victims and the process of holding negligent parties responsible. His insights provide a roadmap for families navigating the complex terrain of elder abuse litigation, emphasizing the importance of swift action and thorough investigation in these sensitive cases.

Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal rights do victims of sexual abuse in senior living facilities have?

Mike Pfau, Esq.: Victims can seek compensation for physical and emotional trauma through civil litigation. This applies to both the abuser and the facility responsible for resident care and safety.
Banville: How can victims hold negligent parties accountable?

Pfau: By filing a lawsuit, victims can expose failures in resident protection. We gather evidence of negligence, such as inadequate staff training, improper background checks, or ignored abuse reports. This process aims to secure justice and prevent future incidents.

Banville: What challenges might victims face in these cases?

Pfau: The emotional toll of reliving trauma during legal proceedings is significant. Additionally, facilities may have incomplete records or systemic issues spanning years, complicating evidence gathering. However, with skilled legal support, these obstacles can be overcome to help victims obtain the compensation and closure they deserve.

Reach Out for Support for Families of Elder Abuse Victims

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse in a senior living facility, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There are legal avenues available to seek justice and hold negligent parties accountable. We encourage victims and their families to reach out for support. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and explore your options. Your voice matters, and together we can work towards ensuring safety and accountability in care facilities.

Source:

https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/mother-sexually-assaulted-federal-way-senior-home