Alleged abuse of mentally handicapped patients in Laurentians
Charges may be filed in a case of alleged abuse of mentally handicapped patients living in readaptation centres in the Laurentians.
Shovelling manure on a farm as punishment, forced to work against their will, being insulted, pushed, and threatened: these are some of the things the patients were allegedly forced to endure while living at readaptation centres in Lachute, managed by the Lisette-Dupras Readaptation Centre in Montreal.
The alleged actions took place over at least four years, but came to an end last summer when a former resident stepped forward to complain.
Dr. Katherine Moxness, director of professional services, says they were unaware of what was happening despite regular checks.
"Our standards are even higher than what are required. But if you want to hide something, you can hide something. Family visited regularly, we visited every two weeks," Moxness told CJAD News.
And along with their regular checks, they've now set up individual meetings with patients.
"And that we ask regularly at least twice a year, 'So are you liking where you're living, do you have a good relationship with the person, what would you change?' "
The SQ and the crown are trying to build the case and they could file charges soon.
Traffic Map