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The Ross County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into serious allegations of sexual abuse involving a resident of the Scioto Trails Group Home located at 370921005000, Chillicothe, OH 45601 on Jude Lane.
On September 3, 2024, an anonymous employee of the intermediate care facility contacted law enforcement to report a potential sexual assault against a developmentally disabled resident by an employee, according to Scioto Valley Guardian. The Sheriff’s Office has chosen not to disclose names to protect the privacy of those involved amid the ongoing investigation.
The anonymous caller reported that a male resident complained of discomfort and claimed that an employee conducted a non-consensual rectal exam, allegedly inserting an un-lubricated hand into the resident’s rectum in an effort to relieve constipation. The caller expressed fear of retaliation from management, which prevented her from revealing her identity.
A deputy was dispatched to the group home shortly after the report. Initial attempts to verify the claims were met with challenges; the provided phone number was disconnected, and staff at the facility denied any knowledge of the incident. Given the sensitive nature of the allegations, the deputy consulted with supervisors on the best approach.
During a welfare check at the facility, the deputy spoke with a nurse who had not previously been informed about the allegations. The nurse initially thought the deputy was referencing a separate complaint involving an employee's inappropriate behavior towards another staff member. After being informed of the situation, she sought guidance from management.
The deputy then met with the alleged victim, who displayed inconsistent behavior during questioning. When asked about his discomfort, the resident abruptly denied any issue and exhibited signs of distress, further raising concerns for the deputy.
Later that evening, the deputy consulted with a Patient Care Advocate at Adena Regional Medical Center, where the resident was taken for further evaluation. Two employees from Scioto Trails claimed that the suspect confessed to inappropriate actions during a conversation with Human Resources. However, when asked about the origin of this information, the employees cited a coworker who was allegedly present during the confession.
Further investigation revealed an earlier complaint from a different resident who accused the same suspect of inappropriate behavior. This resident had communicated his concerns in writing, warning about the suspect's conduct. The suspect allegedly confronted this resident, advising him against documenting any further complaints.
The investigation by the Sheriff’s Office continues as they gather more information, with the involvement of the Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Central Ohio Council of Governments.
In the wake of serious allegations at the Scioto Trails Group Home, we spoke with Ohio attorney John Bey, who specializes in cases of sexual abuse. Bey outlines the legal rights available to victims sexually assaulted by ICF workers and discusses how families can hold negligent parties accountable. His perspective offers valuable guidance for those navigating the complexities of these distressing situations.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us today. Can you explain the legal rights available for victims of sexual assault in intermediate care facilities?
Attorney John Bey: Absolutely, Darla. Victims and their families have several legal options, including the right to report abuse to law enforcement and the right to seek compensation for damages. They can file civil lawsuits against the perpetrator and the facility if negligence is proven.
Medina: What constitutes negligence in these cases?
Bey: Negligence can occur if the facility fails to provide adequate training for staff, doesn't conduct proper background checks, or ignores previous complaints. When these lapses happen, they can be held accountable for the harm caused to residents.
Medina: How can victims and their families go about holding these parties accountable?
Bey: It’s important for victims or their families to document everything—any incidents, communications with staff, and medical records. Consulting with a lawyer experienced in these cases can help navigate the legal process and ensure that all necessary steps are taken to seek justice.
Medina: Thank you for your insights. This information is vital for those affected by these unfortunate situations.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of abuse in a care facility, know that you are not alone. It’s important to understand your rights and the options available to you. We encourage you to contact us for a free consultation. Our team is here to provide support and help you take the necessary steps toward justice and healing.
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