New Smyrna Beach, FL - Hospice Facility Caretaker, Billy Bunn, Arrested For Sexually Assaulting a 90-Year-Old Dementia Patient

Hospice Caretaker Caught Sexually Abusing Patient

According to the Orlando Sentinel, a patient was found being sexually abused by a Hospice caretaker in a Hospice facility located in New Smyrna Beach, FL. 

On Wednesday, April 27, 2022, 51-year-old Billy Bunn was caught sexually abusing a 90-year-old patient. The two Hospice caretakers were in the facility assisting the bedridden patient when one walked in on Bunn exposing his genitals to the patient. He was also witnessed forcing the disabled patient to touch his genitals.

To avoid confrontation the caretaker waited to call the Hospice owner to alert them of the abuse witnessed. Bunn left the scene before officials arrived but was arrested at his home on Thursday, April 28, 2022. He is facing multiple felony sexual assault charges including lewd offense in the presence of the elderly and battery on a person 65 or older. 

Justice For Victims of Elderly Sex Abuse

Attorney contributor Michael Haggard has years of experience helping victims get the legal justice they deserve by filing civil lawsuits. Michael shared some helpful information regarding the legal options available for victims sexually abused by a Hospice caretaker.

"Caretakers, like other medical professionals, have a legal and moral duty to provide the care for the wellbeing of their patients. This doctor-patient relationship is essential because vulnerable patients place a great deal of trust in the physician's expertise, skills, and professionalism. However, not all medical professionals have their patient's best interests in mind and abuse this relationship. However, victims who have been sexually assaulted by caretakers have the legal right to seek justice. They can file criminal charges directly against the perpetrator, but in some cases, they may be able to file a civil lawsuit against a negligent third party, such as the facility."

"Hospice facilities, just like hospitals, have a legal responsibility to maintain the safety of the patients within the medical facility. It is up to the facility to implement a safety plan to reduce the risk of abuse. This might include conducting background checks on all staff members, installing cameras throughout the facility, and screening patients for histories of misconduct. If they fail to provide ample security, the facility could be held liable in a lawsuit. Victims sexually abused by a caretaker or other medical professional should discuss their legal rights and options with an experienced elderly sex abuse attorney."

Sources: 

Orlando Sentinel