WHITING – Three staff members of a local rehabilitation and nursing center received criminal charges after pepper spraying a patient who they claimed was aggressive, police said.
The incident occurred at Whiting Gardens, located at 3000 Hilltop Road, on March 19 at around 8:52 p.m.
Licensed Practical Nurse Lisa Erikson told police that an 87-year-old patient, who suffers from dementia, depression, and anxiety, had become agitated and was damaging property. Erikson then told police that she perceived these actions as a threat and proceeded to “pepper spray the patient in an attempt to de-escalate the situation.” Staff then allegedly confined the patient to his room while waiting for police and emergency medical personnel.
After obtaining statements from staff and reviewing surveillance footage, authorities discovered that the patient was damaging property at the nurses’ station and began walking down the hallway, which police stated did not appear aggressive or threatening.
“Erikson is then seen approaching the patient from behind and deploying pepper spray directly to his face at extremely close range, followed by a second application,” police said in a press release.
Subsequently, the patient fell to the ground and remained unattended for several minutes before being forcibly moved to his room by CNA Joshua Benner, with assistance from Erikson, police said.
According to authorities, the patient remained in his room and was left without medical aid for about 46 minutes before Manchester EMS arrived and provided medical assistance. The patient was brought to Community Medical Center (CMC) for further evaluation.
On April 2, authorities charged the following people connected to the incident:
Lisa Erikson, 58, of Manchester, LPN, was charged with Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and Abandonment or Neglect of an Elderly Person or Disabled Adult.
Celia Anetz-Sanzari, 58, of Manchester, the on-duty nursing supervisor, was charged with Abandonment or Neglect of an Elderly Person or Disabled Adult.
Joshua Benner, 34, of Brick, Certified Nursing Assistant, was charged with Abandonment or Neglect of an Elderly Person or Disabled Adult.
“We take this opportunity to remind healthcare professionals and caregivers of the importance of following proper protocols when dealing with vulnerable populations, especially in long-term care facilities. Ensuring the safety, dignity, and rights of every patient remains a top priority in our community,” Manchester police said.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations, and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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