RCMP have concluded their investigation into a complaint concerning an inappropriate image taken of a resident in a long-term care home in Baie Verte.
RCMP launched the investigation on September 14 when it received a report from management of the home.
Police say a number of interviews were conducted with employees and any other possible witnesses. The investigation was turned over to RCMP West general investigation on October 19 for further assistance and to determine if a criminal offence had taken place.
One image was received, and RCMP say despite rumours circulating in the public, there was no nudity in the image. The investigation determined that the contents of the image, as well as how it was taken and shared, were not criminal.
According to police, evidence was not found to support the grounds required to pursue criminal charges and the investigation is now over. RCMP are asking anyone who may have information or other images that have not already been reported to police to do so.
Abbott Committed to Review of Long-Term, Personal Care Homes
The minister responsible says government is committed to doing a thorough review of long-term and personal care homes in the province.
John Abbott was responding to the fact that no criminal charges will be laid in connection with inappropriate pictures taken of a patient in the long-term care facility in Baie Verte.
The province’s Seniors’ Advocate reiterated her office’s call for a review of long-term and personal care homes in the province when the news first broke in the fall.
Abbott, the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, agrees what they’ve heard is not acceptable, and government is committed to examining how those facilities are run.
He says they have to avoid incidents like that in the future by ensuring the appropriate policies and training are in place.