Nursing aide charged with injuring 92-year-old dementia patient

A St Vincent de Paul nursing aide was today charged in court with slightly injuring a 92-year-old resident at the home.

Standing before Magistrate Ian Farrugia, George Michael Spiteri, 42, of Fgura, pleaded not guilty to slapping the 92-year-old man. Informed sources said the incident happened on Friday when the accused allegedly slapped the man – a dementia patient – across the face.

The victim is said to have suffered bruising to his face and a broken nose. As a result of the injuries sustained by the victim, the court appointed an expert to compile a medical report on the victim.

The Court also granted the accused bail against a personal guarantee of €3,000 on condition that he would not approach the victim or his colleagues.

On Saturday, the Ministry for the Family and Social Solidarity said it took immediate action, and reported the case to the police after they were informed of the incident. The Opposition subsequently issued a statement condemning the alleged abuse and called for a bi-partisan approach in policies to safeguard the elderly.

Shadow family minister Paula Mifsud Bonnici however condemned the government “for lack of action on any other cases of elderly abuse”.

“The government must apply the same yardstick on any alleged case of abuse that is reported. This is the only way to ensure that the elderly and their rights are protected,” he said.

Lawyers Lucio Sciriha and Franco Galea appeared for the accused, while Police Inspector Joseph Mercieca prosecuted.