Bucks Care Home Managers Failed To Report Sexual Abuse: AG

SOUTHAMPTON, PA — The Office of Attorney General, in conjunction with the 47th Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, has filed charges against two managers from an assisted living facility in Southampton after it was determined that they failed to report sexual abuse committed by a male resident.

Attorney General Josh Shapiro released a statement saying that The Landing of Southampton's General Manager, Ashley Harker, and Director of Health and Wellness, Joy Alfonsi, failed to report sexual abuse committed by a male resident with dementia on three female residents also suffering from dementia. All of the residents lived in the facility's memory care unit during the time of the sexual abuse.

After staff members reported the three separate incidences, which occurred on July 22, 24, and 26 of 2021, Harker and Alfonsi assured the staff that they would handle the situation and that they should not document the reports. Both failed to report the incidences, which they are required to do under federal law.

"The defendants were responsible for the safety and well-being of the residents in their care. But instead of protecting their residents, they sought to cover up incidents of sexual abuse of residents that occurred under their watch," Shapiro said.

"Had they followed through on the mandated reporting required by law, these assaults would have been prevented. My office will do all we can to ensure they are held responsible for their neglect."