A 26-year-old caregiver in Michigan is facing serious charges after a disturbing video surfaced showing her allegedly abusing an elderly dementia patient. Dontia Shawnra Arrington, a resident of Flint Township, has been charged with vulnerable adult abuse, torture with intent to cause extreme physical and mental pain, and assault with intent to cause bodily harm.
The charges were announced by the Genesee County Sheriff's Office during a press conference on April 18. Sheriff Chris Swanson revealed that the incident, which occurred on April 4, was triggered by the patient having an accident.
The video footage depicts the caregiver repeatedly striking the 93-year-old woman with a soiled diaper, while the victim attempted to defend herself. The caregiver was also seen attempting to choke the elderly woman during the altercation.
Sheriff Swanson described the victim as being in a state of severe dementia, making her unable to comprehend or process the events unfolding around her. The victim's daughter, identified as Kathy, expressed shock and horror at the abuse her mother endured, noting that the mistreatment likely began in December.
Kathy described her mother as a loving and gentle individual who had never been involved in any physical altercations. She recounted the emotional toll the abuse has taken on her mother, who continues to exhibit signs of trauma and confusion.
Authorities are actively investigating the incident and suspect that multiple individuals may have been involved in the abuse. They are also concerned that there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward.
