Macomb County Nurse Charged After Resident Chokes To Death: Officials

ROMEO, MI — A Macomb County nurse home staffer is facing charges in connection to neglect after a resident died at the facility, according to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Jessica Struhar, 26, was charged with second-degree vulnerable adult abuse and intentionally placing false information in a medical record. She faces up to four years in prison for each count. Her next court date was scheduled for Oct. 17.

Officials said Struhar was working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Medilodge of Richmond in 2021 when she "ignored multiple standing orders" in relation to a 58-year-old resident’s plan of care during mealtime.

The resident then suffered a "choking incident" during mealtime, ultimately resulting in his death, officials said.

In addition, officials said Struhar made several false medical records entries about the victim’s care while he was receiving life-saving care from EMS and hospital personnel.

"The overwhelming majority of those who provide long-term care in Michigan do so with integrity and respect for their important role," Nessel said. "But when there is a serious breach in the responsibility entrusted to them, there are criminal consequences, and my office will seek accountability."