Former Williston Rehabilitation and Nursing Center LPN Surrenders License

February 17, 2015  A former licensed practical nurse at Williston Rehabilitation and Nursing Center accused of placing hot sauce in the mouths of two dementia patients between March 18 and 19, 2013 has relinquished her license to settle the state Board of Nursing case against her.  Tracie S. Nellis, the accused, was arrested on January 13, 2014 by the state Medicaid Fraud control Unit. In May 2014 she plead no contest to misdemeanor battery and a felony charge of battery on a person age 65 or older was dropped by the state. A judge convicted Nellis and sentenced her to one year probation.

Such treatment of the elderly is classified as a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the facts, actionable by the state against the perpetrator. The victim or his family may also bring a civil action against the nursing home for violation of resident’s rights.

If you or a member of your family has suffered at the hands of nursing home personnel, call the office of Laurie D. Mitchell. We have years of experience in protecting the rights of the elderly. 352-371-9828