Abusive care worker caught on camera jailed
Relatives installed a hidden camera at the Devon care home where he worked
A care worker from Devon has been jailed for a year after being caught on camera physically abusing a patient.
The family of the 94 year old, who was partially-sighted and had limited physical mobility, became concerned about brusing on the man's leg, and installed a camera at Langford Park Nursing Home in July 2023.
The footage showed the man being handled roughly and being treated with a lack of dignity and respect.
The family immediately reported this to the care home manager and Jinu Shaji was suspended.
Three other care workers, who were employed by an agency, were reported, and told not to return to the home with immediate effect.
"An extremely upsetting case"
Following contact with the police, an investigation was launched and all four were arrested.
Shaji was later charged with ill-treatment by a care worker and appeared at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on 21 December 2023.
The 26 year old from Russet Avenue in Exeter has been given a 12 month sentence at the same court on Friday 8th March.
His three co-workers received police cautions for ill-treatment/neglect by a care worker.
Detective Inspector Charlotte Heath said: “This was an extremely upsetting case which showed distressing footage of the victim being roughly handled by those who should have been caring for him.
“We welcome the outcome today and hope that the family can find comfort in justice being served.”
The victim died in September 2023.
His death is not believed to be in connection with the incident.