A harrowing tale out of Mount Pleasant a few weeks ago serves as a reminder that nursing home abuse can happen to any elderly person living in an institutional setting.

The Post and Courier reported in December that a 101-year-old man living at the Mount Pleasant Manor nursing home was allegedly the victim of sexual and physical abuse at the hands of a nursing home employee.

A 44-year-old North Charleston man was charged with abuse of a vulnerable adult in connection with an incident that happened December 6 at the nursing home.

The elderly man’s granddaughter had hired a private investigator to place a hidden camera in her grandfather’s room after he complained of being assaulted, according to an affidavit quoted by the newspaper.

“Video taken December 6 shows [the North Charleston man] hitting and poking the man, pulling his arm and kissing his cheek, according to the affidavit and the victim’s attorney,” the newspaper said.

It’s a sad truth that nursing home residents are some of society’s most vulnerable individuals. They can be easy targets for abuse and neglect, often out of confidence on the part of the abuser that they will not speak up about the mistreatment, either because they are too ill or because they are embarrassed or don’t want to get anyone in trouble.

It is usually up to a nursing home resident’s family members to look out for their interests. Frequently visiting a loved one who is in a nursing home and maintaining awareness of their physical and mental condition is the best was to prevent a loved one from falling victim to serious abuse or neglect.

If you do recognize signs of abuse or neglect in a nursing home resident, alert a member of the nursing home’s management staff of your concerns. In life-threatening situation, dial 911.

Our South Carolina nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys at Joye Law Firm can help you, too. We help people who have been injured by others recover compensation to assist them in their recovery. Contact us at 888-918-4964 or complete our online form for a free review of your case.

About the Author

Mark Joye is the Head of the Litigation Department at the Joye Law Firm. A Board-Certified Trial Advocate with nearly 30 years of litigation experience, he currently serves on the Board of Governors for the American Association for Justice and is a past president of the South Carolina Association for Justice. In a recent trial, Joye headed a trial team that secured $17 million for a family killed in a tractor-trailer accident.

Recent Blog Post
Image of a woman in a santa hat in the driver's seat of a car
National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month: How to Talk to Your Loved Ones About Driving Safe this Holiday Season

December marks National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, a critical time for raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. With holiday celebrations increasing the risk of alcohol-related accidents, it’s vital to engage in open discussions with friends and…

What to Do in South Carolina: Staff Picks 11/28/23 – 12/4/23

As we usher in the holiday season, South Carolina is adorned with a myriad of festive events to spark joy and create lasting memories. Joye Law Firm, deeply rooted in the communities we serve, has handpicked some delightful happenings from…

Image of a group of friends in a car
Are Passengers or Drivers More Likely to be Injured in Crashes?

Riding in the passenger seat isn’t just about enjoying the view or controlling the playlist. When another person is behind the wheel, it can mean potential risks for you as a passenger. This is due to your positioning in the…

What to Do in South Carolina: Staff Picks 11/21/23 – 11/27/23

The holiday season is upon us, and Joye Law Firm is delighted to share handpicked events across South Carolina that promise festive fun for families and friends. From Charleston to Clinton, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this week! Charleston…

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News