Failure to Protect Residents from Misappropriation of Funds
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect residents from misappropriation of their funds and did not implement corrective action or reimburse residents after multiple reports of missing money. Several residents reported to the Resident Council President and staff that their personal funds, ranging from $15 to over $100, were stolen from their rooms or personal belongings. Despite these reports, residents did not receive updates on the status of their complaints or any reimbursement for their losses. The facility's policy requires protection of resident property, but this was not followed in these cases. Interviews with residents revealed that they had reported the thefts to various staff members, including the Administrator, DON, Social Service Director, and security personnel. However, the residents consistently stated that no follow-up or resolution was provided. The Social Service Director confirmed that she collected statements and forwarded them to the Administrator, but was unaware of any investigation outcomes or reimbursements. The Administrator acknowledged the reports of stolen money but stated that, in his view, the facility was not obliged to reimburse residents unless the exact amounts could be confirmed. The affected residents had varying degrees of cognitive function, with some being cognitively intact and others having moderate impairment. Their medical histories included conditions such as heart disease, heart failure, anxiety disorder, anemia, and hemiplegia. The lack of action and communication from the facility left residents feeling unsafe, discouraged, and financially vulnerable, as their reports of missing funds were not addressed or resolved.