1. “Caregiver accused of harming disabled patient for financial gain”
2. “How to properly evaluate care facilities for loved ones with disabilities”.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tips for Ensuring Safety in Care Facilities
A tragic incident involving the murder of a disabled man at a care facility has raised concerns about the safety of vulnerable individuals in such settings. FOX 26’s Abigail Dye investigates how families can protect their loved ones in care facilities.
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Carroll Richardson has been charged with murder in connection with the death of Daniel Howey, a 37-year-old man with intellectual and developmental disabilities who was wheelchair-bound.
On October 13, 2020, Howey’s body was discovered in Dutton Lake on FM 2354 by Chambers County detectives. He had been reported missing from Harris County around the same time.
Investigators revealed that Howey was under the care of Richardson at the Caring Hands Group Home in Harris County. It was later uncovered that Howey had received a substantial settlement from a personal injury case in May 2020.
Evidence suggests that Richardson systematically depleted Howey’s settlement through various transactions, diverting large sums of money to himself, his associates, and his business.
A witness provided crucial information about the events leading up to Howey’s murder, which occurred in Chambers County. Detectives believe that Howey threatened to report Richardson for embezzling his settlement funds.
An accomplice of Richardson, identified as Shaun Sandles from Harris County, was also implicated in the crime. Both Richardson and Sandles were indicted by a Grand Jury on May 30 on murder charges.
In 2020, Houston authorities shut down the boarding homes operated by Richardson following a series of charges related to financial exploitation and abuse of elderly residents. However, operating a boarding home without a license was legal until 2021.
Chad Shaw, Assistant Chief Prevention at the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between licensed care facilities like nursing homes and unregulated boarding homes.
He highlighted the new regulations introduced in 2021 for boarding homes and group homes, which are now overseen by municipalities to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Shaw explained that regular inspections are conducted by the fire marshal and sheriff’s office to monitor these facilities and address any violations promptly. The goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
For individuals seeking care facilities, Shaw advised understanding the regulatory framework governing the facility and the type of care they are authorized to provide. This information can be accessed through state and municipality websites.
By staying informed and vigilant, families can take proactive steps to safeguard their loved ones in care facilities and prevent tragic incidents like the one involving Daniel Howey.
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– Caregiver accused of killing disabled patient for settlement
– How to vet care facilities for quality care.
