Three female nursing home workers have been arrested for the horrific crime of openly taking sexual photographs of the bodies of deceased elderly patients.
The appalling behavior at the Golden Age Nursing Facility in Guthrie, Oklahoma, came to light in April when a former employee alerted Guthrie police.
“Some employees were involved in sending inappropriate photos of their patients, we found photos of some deceased individuals,” Sweger said KVOR“We found a number of photos showing the suspects playing with pubic hair.”
The three suspects charged with elder abuse are 21-year-old Jade Williams, 21-year-old Aubrey Granata and 20-year-old McKenzie Bolfa.
“They had excuses for some of their behavior, but it didn’t really match the evidence that we found,” Sweger said.
Three female nursing home employees have been arrested after they took sexually explicit photos of the bodies of deceased elderly patients. (Pictured: 20-year-old suspect McKenzie Bolfa)
Court documents show the three women exchanged Snapchat photos of the elderly patients.
One video reportedly shows an elderly resident in bed, wearing only a shirt and diaper, with feces on his socks and on the bedding.
“It’s probably one of the saddest things,” Sweger said. “We take our service to everyone very responsibly, but especially to those who don’t have a voice.”
According to reports, investigators found another video showing a male resident lying on his stomach, undressed from the waist down.
An investigation by Guthrie Police began in April after a tip from a former employee reported activity at the Golden Age Nursing Facility in Guthrie, Oklahoma
The three suspects accused of elder abuse (pictured: 21-year-old suspect Aubrey Granata)
In addition, photos have reportedly surfaced showing deceased residents in the institution, while staff members mocked them post-mortem.
Authorities stressed that they are committed to a thorough investigation into these serious allegations.
“Without us and without other people caring, there is no justice,” Sweger said.
A statement from nursing home director Tandie Hastings to KFOR reads:
Golden Age Nursing Home strives to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
(Pictured: 21-year-old suspect Jade Williams)
‘When the institution received information about certain allegations against its employees, it worked with local police and other relevant authorities to respond.
The employees involved had undergone background checks, were trained in resident rights and safety, and were fired.
‘We strive to protect the privacy and safety of the residents and families involved and will keep them informed of all developments surrounding this matter.