One of three defendants charged with over drugging patients at a nursing home, resulting in three deaths, has accepted a plea bargain that involves testifying against the others. A former pharmacist at a Lake Isabella nursing facility, Debbi Gayle Hayes has agreed to help prosecute the nursing director and a doctor. All three worked at the Kern Valley Healthcare District’s skilled nursing facility until they were arrested in February on charges of elder abuse and causing harm or death.
It is alleged by the California Attorney General’s Office that the three played a role in drugging at least 22 elderly residents with mood-altering medications to quiet and control them. The state further alleges that this resulted in the death of three residents at the facility. Last week, Hayes pleaded no contest to conspiracy to obstruct justice and was sentenced to three years probation and one year in jail. However, the jail sentence won’t be imposed if she cooperates truthfully in the case and completes her probation with no further problems.
Berman & Riedel, LLP is a San Diego based law firm that primarily focuses its practice in the area of elder abuse and neglect law. Berman & Riedel, LLP represents clients throughout the state of California against nursing homes and other elder care facilities that commit wrongful or neglectful acts against their residents. Because the firm’s attorneys have extensive knowledge and experience in practicing elder abuse and neglect law, Berman & Riedel, LLP has been able to secure some of the state’s most successful settlements and awards for its clients.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the care that an elderly loved one is receiving, call Berman & Riedel, LLP today at (858) 350-8855 to speak with an elder abuse attorney. Our staff will be more than happy to provide you and your family with an initial free consultation to discuss what rights you and your family may have under California and federal law. To find out more information about the firm’s practice, visit Berman & Riedel, LLP’s main website at www.preventelderabuse.com.
