DeBary, FL - Roger Pratt, a Certified Nursing Assistant, Arrested for Allegedly Sexually Abusing Dementia Patients at the Debary Health and Rehabilitation Center

Nurse Accused of Sexually Abusing Dementia Patients

According to Click Orlando, a certified nursing assistant has been charged with sexually abusing a patient at the  Debary Health and Rehabilitation Center located at 60 N Charles Richard Beall Blvd, DeBary, FL 32713. 

On Wednesday, December 15, 2021, 72-year-old Roger Pratt was charged with sexual battery. Another employee at the rehab facility allegedly saw Pratt kissing a victim who suffered from dementia. When administration personnel addressed the accusations with Pratt, he said he often kisses his patients and "did not think much of" it.

Pratt was arrested, and he was released on $15,000 bail. 

Can I Sue for Sexual Abuse By a Nurse?

Attorney contributor Michael Haggard is an experienced lawyer for sexual abuse by nurses. Michael represents victims of sexual abuse in civil lawsuits against medical facilities, such as rehab centers. He recently sat down with Legal Herald to discuss when victims can sue for being sexually abused by a nurse. 

"Medical professionals, including nurses and nursing assistants, are often trusted by their patients. Sadly, not all are trustworthy and take advantage of their positions of power and trust. Recently, numerous reports of nurses sexually assaulting patients have surfaced across the country. However, victims of sexual abuse have legal rights. This includes filing criminal charges against the abuser."

"Additionally, victims may be able to file a civil lawsuit against the medical facility. Medical facilities, including rehab centers, have a duty to provide a safe environment for their patients. All staff members should undergo a background check, and the facility should be under constant video surveillance in order to reduce the risk of abuse. If a nurse has previously been accused of sexual assault, a report should be made and investigated. If a facility fails to uphold its property safety, it can be held liable in a civil lawsuit. Negligent rehab centers can be accountable for paying victims and their families restitution for their abuse. Sexual abuse victims and their families should seek the legal representation of an experienced lawyer for sexual abuse by nurses to fully explore their options."

Sources: 

Click Orlando