In June 2024, a grand jury indicted two men employed at a Tom's River nursing home with charges related to the alleged mistreatment of a patient. Both men were charged with criminal neglect of an elderly patient, assault, and criminal restraint. The criminal charges center around the care of an elderly Alzheimer's patient at the nursing facility.

If you are charged with neglect or assault of an elderly person in New Jersey, you need an experienced criminal attorney in your corner. The Lento Law Firm Team has a wealth of experience in criminal defense, including defending against claims of abuse or neglect in the nursing home setting. With a track record of successful cases and a commitment to defending the rights of the accused, the Lento Law Firm is the right choice for your legal representation. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or contact us online, and we will be there to help guide you through this difficult time.

Neglect of an Elderly Person in NJ

In New Jersey, caregivers accused of neglecting persons under their care can be charged criminally. Section 24-8 of the NJ criminal code (Title 2C) defines abuse and neglect of an older or disabled person as a third-degree offense. To be charged, a defendant must:

• Have a legal duty to care for someone over 60 or a disabled adult.
• Abandon or unreasonably neglect the elderly or disabled person or fail to act to protect their mental or physical health.

Individuals charged with criminal neglect of an elderly or disabled adult may also be charged with other crimes related to the same conduct. In the Trenton River case, the nursing home workers were also charged with assault and criminal restraint.

Penalties for Criminal Neglect in NJ

The penalties for a third-degree offense in NJ vary, depending on the nature of the alleged abuse. Courts can impose the following penalties:

• Jail time of 3-5 years.
• Fines, which can be substantial.
• Restitution to the victim.

Most seriously, a person convicted of criminal neglect will have a criminal record involving abuse. This will severely limit employment opportunities and can break families apart.

It's important to understand that anyone accused of neglect or abuse in a nursing home may face both a civil action (a lawsuit for money damages) and criminal charges. A criminal charge of neglect has a higher standard of proof and is harder to prove, but it comes with devastating consequences for a person convicted.

If You Are Accused of Neglect or Abuse of an Adult

If you are accused of neglect and abuse of an elderly or disabled person, it is crucial to seek experienced legal counsel immediately. Courts in New Jersey take charges of this type very seriously, and the ramifications of a guilty verdict are extreme. The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team is committed to defending the rights of people accused of abuse or neglect in New Jersey. Protect your reputation and future and invest in a vigorous defense now. Contact the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or contact us online, and we will contact you promptly.