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Charges filed in Good Sam case
Charges range from failure to report, to assault in the fifth degree
Published Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Brianna Broitzman
Ashton Larson
To see the complaints
Charges against two adults and four juveniles have been filed in Freeborn County District Court in the case of alleged abuse at Good Samaritan Society of Albert Lea.
The charges, filed Monday, range from mandated failure to report suspected abuse to criminal abuse of a vulnerable adult and assault in the fifth degree.
According to court papers, Brianna Marie Broitzman, 19, has been charged with three counts of assault in the fifth degree of a caregiver to a vulnerable adult, three counts of criminal abuse of a vulnerable adult, three counts of criminal abuse of a vulnerable adult with sexual contact, one instance of disorderly conduct by a caregiver, and one instance of mandated reporter failure to report.
Ashton Michelle Larson, 18, has been charged with two counts of assault in the fifth degree of a caregiver to a vulnerable adult, one count of criminal abuse of a vulnerable adult, four counts of criminal abuse of a vulnerable adult with sexual contact, two counts of disorderly conduct by a caregiver and one count of mandated reporter failure to report.
The charges were filed by the Freeborn County Attorney’s Office. They are based on an investigation by the Albert Lea Police Department and the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office. Freeborn County Attorney Craig Nelson was not immediately available for comment. The complaint does not state who are the lawyers for the two teenagers.
The details of abuse allegations surfaced after the release of a Minnesota Department of Health report Aug. 28 that concluded four teenagers were involved in verbal, sexual and emotional abuse of 15 residents at the nursing home in Albert Lea. The report did not release the names of the teenagers.
The teenagers are all Albert Lea High School graduates. They were all terminated from the nursing home.
Criminal charges bear a greater standard of proof than state certification requirements and therefore require a more thorough investigation than the Department of Health investigation. The Department of Health investigated five teens, alleging four had committed abusive acts. The police investigated eight teenage women, and the county attorney brought various charges against six of them. Aside from Broitzman and Larson, the remaining four are being charged with mandated failure to report. They were juveniles at the time.
Tribune has learned that out of the six charged there were Broitzman and Larson, along with Alicia Heilmann and Morgan Walton, who are both now 18. The Tribune is seeking the identities of the other two teens.
Charges were filed after detective Debra Flatness with the Albert Lea Police Department and deputy Bob Kindler with the Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office headed up the investigation. Law enforcement authorities received initial notice of suspected abuse of elderly at the nursing home on May 1, according to court papers. The residents suffered from mental degradation conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Present during some of the investigation interviews were employees of Good Samaritan Society and a special investigator for the Minnesota Department of Health, court papers state. The investigation focused on a group of young part-time nursing assistants, some of who were allegedly directly involved in the abuse and some who knew or observed the abuse but had failed to report it.
Court papers state that during interviews Broitzman admitted that she and Larson had poked a resident in the breast. She also stated that numerous videos and photos had been taken of residents between January and April, according to the court papers.
During interviews, Larson admitted to actions such as spitting water on a resident, lying in bed with a resident, touching a resident on the buttocks, inserting her finger into a resident’s rectum, antagonizing a resident, humping a resident and putting her hand over a resident’s mouth because that resident would scream, court papers state.
Others interviewed said they began talking among themselves about what was taking place in the nursing home after Jan. 1, according to the papers. They stated Broitzman and Larson spanked a resident, teased a resident and poked residents in the genitals.
One stated Broitzman put her bare rear end in one resident’s face and that Larson would rub vigorously on residents’ genital areas to sexually arouse them.
The abusive activity was confined to certain residents, that person stated.
Another interviewed stated that Broitzman and Larson “spit into a resident’s mouth because they were upset that the resident was drooling all over,” according to the report. She said Broitzman and Larson would inappropriately touch residents’ genitals and breasts to make them angry.
Broitzman and Larson face one year in jail and/or a payment of a fine of not more than $3,000 for each of the fifth-degree assault counts; not more than one year in jail and/or a $3,000 fine for each of the criminal abuse of a vulnerable adult counts; one year in jail and/or a $3,000 fine for each of the disorderly conduct counts; and 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine for the mandated failure to report counts.
Comments
Posted by amyzone (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This whole thing makes me sick!!!!! These girls must not have anyone that they love in a nursing home and if they do I pray God is watching over their loved ones and no one like them are taking care of them. What in the world could possibly make someone do this? The decision to put a loved one in a nursing home is agonizing. People should never have to worry about their loved ones being abused. It's bad enough you have to worry that your loved one might be the abuser, let alone the abused. People with dementia (which is what senility is as well as altzeimers) don't have the control that they used too. My brother lives at St. Johns and I am so glad!!! No member of my family will ever go to Good Samaritan if I have anything to say about it. I don't know how you can do a backround check on the young people appying for these jobs but there must be some kind of psychological test or something to determine whether or not people should be working in this kind of profession. My heart goes out to the families of all the victims. I pray that all the folks at Good Sams are now safe!!!
Posted by alhsgrad90 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It is sad that I had to go to 92KQRS to see the photos before the Al Trib had them. Way to go AL Trib for keeping the people of this town informed.
Posted by amyzone (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks for telling me. I went to the site which led me to KSTP channel 5 out of the cities. Craig Nelson is quoted as saying "most likely will face suspended jail sentences and probation, so they'd have the threat of jail hanging over them if they get in more trouble," .
Mr. Nelson, what is wrong with you? Your own parents are at the age where they could end up as one of these girls victims. Do you have to wait until they do it again before they pay? Some cases are 1 strike your out. Not 3.
Posted by ccvilla (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
that is juss terrible. and they are only facing 1 yr. people get more than that for having a dirty u.a. , and they are only hurting themselves. but you get maybe a yr for doing this to other elderly vulnerable adults. no favoritism there
Posted by advocate (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/yea...
Posted by amyzone (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
One more thing and then I will be done. If anyone would like to read more about this than the AL Tribune is willing to tell, Please go to http://www.startribune.com/local/3533663...
Just cut and paste into your browser bar.
Posted by collegegal12 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is just disgusting and it makes me sick to my stomach to know that I went to school with these girls. I don't see how anyone in their right mind could do such a thing like this.
Posted by govikes (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If found guilty, "they most likely will face suspended jail sentences and probation, so they'd have the threat of jail hanging over them if they get in more trouble," said Freeborn County Attorney Craig Nelson, who filed the charges Monday" (If this is the case Craig Nelson should be fired immediately)
Posted by justicedog (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
These girls should be delt with in the fashion of how they treated the residence of the Nursing home. It wouldn't be so funny then. But, then again Ms. Broitzman would probably enjoy that kind of attention.
Posted by borninMNnowinTX (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I cant believe this, I heard this on a local radio station down here in Austin TX. What were they thinking. I am sooo glad that my Gram is no longer there! Although she probably would have beat them with her cane! I hope they get the book thrown at them!!!
Posted by OldTrojan (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It makes absolutley no sense to me as to why the administration at this facility did not know about these incidents much, much earlier than they did. Given the number of incidents, serverity of incidents, and the number of victims it is unfathomable that a stop to the alleged abuse did not happen much earlier than it did. In addition, it was not just one person who was carrying out the alleged abuse. It was multiple employees of the nursing home that were allegedly abusing! How did that go un-noticed? If the allegations prove true the label of sexual predator should be applied to those found to be guilty. Is ALHS, community churches, and local parents teaching young people anything about normal, healthy sex? How long will it be until Albert Lea's name is no longer tarnished by this story?
Posted by nutrient (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
After reading what these girls have done to these innocent residents makes me sick. If and when they go to jail/prison, i hope what comes around goes around.
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If thess were males-they would've been in jail/prison already-but these girls are getting special treatment....how is it 5th degree assault when it's CLEARLY premeditated. They exploited these people with their pics and videos! Hopefully they didn't babysit children-they are vulnerable as well. Sick-o's!
Posted by mel (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This made me so sick! I have been a nursing assistant for 10 years now and its people like these girls who give us all a bad name. I hope they get the max that they are able to be given and karma. How could you treat someone else's family member like that really? I have always treated residents like they were my family. My heart goes out to the residents who were abused in this process by these very sick girls and to their families who are im sure now trying to pick up the pieces. I hope these girls rot in jail!!!
Posted by sandy_c (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The potential punishment(s) don't seem to fit the crimes. Doesn't abuse of a dependent adult also constitute a federal crime? These actions are beyond cruel; where is the justice in this country? The suffering withstood by these defenseless elders and their families so far outweighs the potential punishment for the perpetrators...where is the justice?
Posted by taxpayer (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
siouxsuck...are you freaking kidding me!! Why on earth are you trying to protect the alleged abusers in this case? They may be minors but they committed an adult crime and therefore need to suffer the embarassment and humiliation that their helpless victims suffered. I'm sorry but I fail to see where these individuals should be protected. They were getting paid to protect our elderly and failed to do that so why should they be protected. The Tribune owes an apology to NOBODY!! The apologies need to go to the victims and the families that entrusted their loved ones to the care of the staff at Good Sams. Law suit. That's funny.
Posted by speakup (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
WHEN the ball is dropped on this one, the public servants responsible should do the right thing and resign. Albert Lea and Freeborn deserve better than what is and has been delivered on our behalf.
Posted by rlwr51 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why are there no criminal sexual conduct charges? Why shouldn't they be faced with registering as sex offenders? This type of thing NEEDS to be on their record. They have about 40 years of potential emplyment left. The public needs to be assured that they will never be eligible to work with vulnerable people ever again. If these were males this would be the case(I am not a man). Gender equality means gender equality.
Posted by speakup (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 12:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am so glad this case is finally getting the national attention it deserves. Maybe our local government will feel compelled to do the right thing when the whole country will be watching. Shameful it has to come to that!
Posted by speakup (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1 p.m. (Suggest removal)
siouxsuck who has been violated?
Posted by speakup (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't recall seeing the names of any minors. All grown up!!!
Posted by litang05 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What's the minimum age for admittance? Where do I sign up?
Posted by wingo (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
They should be tried as adults. The job they were doing clearly states the responsiblities they had, if a juvenile can do an adult job then they should be prosecuted as an adult. How many other cases have you seen in the news where the juveniles were charged as adults, and not just for murders either.
Posted by mrthunder (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
what ever happened to inanest until proven guilty. sure glad i don't live in a communist country where you are guilt first
Posted by taxpayer (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
siouxsuck...Wow!! resorting to name calling. Thanks for displaying your level of intelligence to everyone. All I can say is that your day come when you need care. I hope that you have the intitals of these individuals so that you can call on them to take care of you.
Posted by joshe (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is beyond belief that these women aren't all being charged as adults with serious felony charges. A year in jail?! They should all spend a minimum of 15 years, in a state penitentiary in general population, with other vicious criminals like them. They should be placed on the National Sex Offender Registry for life. They deserve no mercy, no forgiveness, and no compassion.
If they were male, they would be treated as such and deservedly so.
I was abused by a girl when I was a kid. She got off easy because she was a she. Its time to stop treating women and girls as though they have less control over their actions as men. Start holding female monsters to the same standards as their male counterparts.
Honestly, if it was up to me I'd have them all shot. Why should the taxpayers be forced to feed and clothe these sadistic psychopaths? What do they bring to the world besides misery and pain?
Posted by demo1960 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well, I guess the rumors were true. One of the girl's parent has been a long-time employee of Good Sam's. Some of her other children have worked there as well. Not everyone is cut out the that kind of work so I would hope that we don't have parents pressuring their kids into working in that capacity just because they need a job and Mom works there so they are more inclined to hire family. Which is the Good Sam way. Very attractive girls in the pictures. I hope people understand now it is not the package a person comes in. But I also have to wonder if these girls would have been males or of a different race they would have been charged a long time ago. These girls - if convicted - better have to register as sexual offenders. I might end up in a nursing home some day and I sure don't want them caring for me.
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Mr thunder....
THEY ADMITTED IT !!!!!!! WHAT ELSE DO YOU NEED?!?!?!?!?!?! IT'S NOT US SAYING THEIR GUILTY-IT'S THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
These comments remind of the stories of the old west. I do not know the girls and have not heard any specifics of the case, but there is a court system. In America you or presumed inncent until proven guilty by a court of law.
Posted by FreeBorn (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OldTrojan, You can't blame Good Sam for this, these girls worked as a tag team with the observing teen watching for any unexpected traffic. They knew their victims couldn't defend themselves...think about how the priests victimized the children of their congregations for years without the congregation knowing...perpetrators of children and vulnerable adults are rarely caught...Good Sam goes over and beyond when screening and training employees-they fired the minor teen for swearing in front of a resident-what does that tell you about their rules/values! perpetrators are successful because they know they need to present themselves as 'normal' people. This is not about Good Sam's failure to catch these perps...it's about predators finding their victims!
Posted by justwrong (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What these girls did was just wrong. I would like to know if there was any VA information about who to tell if they see abuse in their training. This is just wrong and I can not imagine why anyone would think this is "fun."
After reading some comments one of these girls involved in the case said she obviously does not think she did anything wrong! She just feels bad she got caught!
Unfortountly in our society, people can get away with just a "slap on the wrist." They knew what they were doing when they were doing it, full punishment is what they deserve.
Posted by bobbennett1 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why isn't Miss Larson charged with rape? She alledgedly commited an act of penetration, and any man would be charged if the roles were reversed.
Posted by bobbennett1 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wildbill, the courts presume innocence but I am not required to. If someone admits they did something, why would I pretend they are innocent until they are convicted.
Posted by iamwoman (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey souixsuck, you seem to have some guilty feelings, ever live in AL recently!!! I guess the name says it all!
Posted by joshe (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
bobbennett1, the courts hold female offenders to a lower standard.
Bluntly put, women turn on the waterworks and get away with it.
Hopefully fate will do to these women what the justice system lacks the balls to do.
Posted by Minniepede (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Don't show an ounce of mercy to these little animals. Threaten them with jail? Lock them up now, then let a criminal record that documents their cruelty to vulnerable human beings follow them for the rest of their lives.
Let's not let their "Mean Girl" behavior get them out of this one--give them the full force of the punishment they rightfully deserve.
Posted by bobbennett1 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"..threat of jail hanging over them." ???? Why not "registered sex offender"? I really wouldn't care if they got a suspended sentence if they were required to register as sex offenders for the rest of their lives.
Posted by advocate (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Check out the smoking gun link. It has a record of the police records.
Posted by joshe (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The problem with America:
Drug possession: a felony.
Elder abuse: a misdemeanor
I think that says it all.
Posted by dede (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
And how many of them are currently in Nursing school? They should NEVER be allowed to care for people again and they should do jail time, people drinking and driving or getting caught with Drugs get a stiffer sentence than that. God be with the residents and their families who have had to endure this nightmare and God help us all if people can commit acts like that and get off with probation.
Craig Nelson your in the wrong profession.
Posted by outoftowner (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Some things to ask: After these girls are convicted and will get the slap on their wrist, which the county attorney has basically said they will, will they be considered sex offenders? Will they have to register as such and let communities know when they’re moving to town? I hope so. Will they be denied any type of job—CNA, LPN, RN, etc.--working with the vulnerable (adults or children) in any capacity. I hope so. These are the things I’m thinking about. Especially when in a past post someone said one of these girls was in nursing school—ARE YOU KIDDING ME? And, like some of you have said, if these young women were men, they would definitely be doing time, probably be charged with rape, and would be registered as sex offenders. These women should not get special treatment. They blatantly knew what they were doing, they said so, and they should be punished to the fullest extent--no exceptions.
Posted by happygirl (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am familiar with the last names of these girls... I believe that they are GUILTY!! It does not surprise me in the least that they did this. How sick!! And....How old are we girls?? Grow up!!
Posted by justicedog (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, at least 1 of these girls is going to school to be a nurse. What a waste of mommy's and daddy's money. Give them what they deserve.
Posted by amyzone (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 2:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Where does it say that one of these girls is in nursing school?
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There are people that know these girls and went to school with them, so they knew what their plans were after high school....
Posted by demo1960 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:10 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by holycow (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dear Penthouse,
I never thought this would happen to me...
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
we should protest....
Posted by demo1960 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I noticed Bob Kindler was one of the detectives working on the case. Last I knew his wife worked at Good Sam's or used to. Does that represent a problem?
Posted by myresort (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think they should be registered as sexual predators. Also brings up the idea that they should never work with anyone who would be a vulnerable person, meaning children, teenagers and older adults.
Posted by citizen07 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It doesn't surprise me that one is in nursing school. An article a week or so ago was about 3 of the girls fighting the state so they could work in the healthcare field.
Even if they get a light sentence, at least they still have the public humiliation to deal with, this is all over the news so the stories alone will have a huge negative impact on their lives.
People think I am crazy for wanting to be an RN in a nursing home, but this is the reason why! The eldery deserve so much better.
Posted by observer (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is beyond tragic and unfortunately, our county attorney is sending a very bad message to the country (this has become national). Message: Do the crime, don't worry you won't do the time, we will slap your wrist and give you probation. What part of sticking her finger were the sun don't shine is not considered breaking a sexual law? Very very sad, not a proud day for Albert Lea and this one will stick with us for a while.
Posted by alhsgrad90 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:45 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by rlwr51 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Has anyone contacted the Minnesota Attorney General, Lori Swanson? 651-296-3353 or 1-800-657-3787
Posted by observer (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Has there been a court date set yet, after charges were filed? Or did Nelson know before charges that this will never make it to a court room?
Posted by justmealmn (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If found guilty, "they most likely will face suspended jail sentences and probation, so they'd have the threat of jail hanging over them if they get in more trouble," said Freeborn County Attorney Craig Nelson. For him to say this already...you know thats all their going to get too. Its like lots of others have said already that they should get the same treatment as IF they were males doing those samethings to those adults. So I guess time well tell what will happen with it actually goes to court. I feel sorry for the parents of these kids to know just who they have living under their roof. To actually do this type of thing and then to the ones NOT to have reported it right away like they were trained when first hired.
Posted by headscratcher (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think as a society we have always favored the ones "with the looks". Yeah they get caught doing something but as they are growing up too many people say "awe but she's so cute" then turn the other way. These girls have probably never had to fully carry out any discipline in their lives. The sad thing they probably won't now either.
Posted by outoftowner (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, alhsgrad90, I haven’t followed the Northfield case recently, but the county attorney on that case asked that the court consider the 16-year-old girl to be an adult in relation to the assaults, as she should be. Because of her idiotic and malicious lie, this handicapped man was severely beaten by at least two members of the MN Nation Guard--how shameful.
If a person is mature enough to be hired on to take care of VAs, then they should be mature enough to suffer the consequences of their actions. It disgusts me to know these women are fighting for and might have the chance to work in the health care field. That’s why it’s especially important that they are listed as sex offenders so this would not be a possibility. I hope you’re reading this Mr. Nelson.
Posted by dede (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Nelson knows the people-- probably personally- and should not be allowed to be involved with the case. He can't be byass, he said it himself when he wanted the higher up's to prosecute. Sad Sad Sad
Posted by albertlea1 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Install cameras in every room and hallway.
Posted by iamwoman (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
albertlea1 good thought, but what about patient privacy? They have already had there homes taken away and just have this little room sometimes sharing with a roommate. As much as I want my relatives protected, I want them to have some privacy and dignity also.
Posted by iamwoman (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:29 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by badjuju (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why do's everyone see sex offenders here, all but Craig Nelson. You can bet your sweet backside that if a man did this crime, he might be out of jail too, but it would be because he had to post bail. I read one comment that said Good Sam is not to blame for what their little perv employees were doing, what a crock of crap that is. If thats the case then they should get rid any supervisors they have because they have no idea whats going on right under there noses.
Posted by outoftowner (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well, technology is amazing these days. Why not have all health care providers carry a "nannycam" attached to a pen, pin, etc., so that while the patient/resident is being cared for there is also someone watching the care provider?
Posted by FLY (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Regarding the Northfield case of the 16 year old who was involved with torturing a vulnerable person, she was given a 96 month stayed sentence. The older males involved haven't been sentenced yet. Details here:
http://northfieldnews.com/news.php?viewS...
I'm from Northfield and in addition to the torture case, we've had a cluster of heroin deaths and alleged misconduct by the mayor and possibly others.
I feel bad for Albert Lea. Your town's name is all over the internet now, on smokinggun etc. I'm sure that these six sadistic subhuman creeps are not a reflection of your town as a whole, just as the wrong doers in Northfield don't represent the whole town. I hope the newspaper and town as a whole can find some positive things youth are doing, and focus on them.
I have no sympathy for Broitman and Larson. The others should have their names publicized too. How awful that so many young people would engage in this behavior, and worse yet, think it is funny.
Posted by OldTrojan (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 4:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FreeBorn I believe that you are way off base in your perspective. Good Sam's is a business. The priesthood is not. People pay for care in a nursing home. Folks are not required to pay to go to church. When this business takes in residents it does so with the good faith of resident and their family that it will be a safe and non-hostile environment. Clearly, according to the allegations, this business did not uphold their end of the bargain. If they did not know that the alleged incidents were happening right under their noses they should have. Again, this was not a one-time event. This was not one person doing one or a few dirty deeds. There is alleged to be mutliple employees involved in mutiple sex acts with multiple vulnerable victims. Yes, the administration at Good Sam's is at fault for allowing and fostering an unfair and unsafe environment for its residents. They have managed their business very, very poorly and should have to pay a penalty for doing so.
Posted by dj8887 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Everyone is right! I just can not believe what we have been reading lately. I have been reading several websites with these girls names and photos plastered on them. I wondered if ABC or any of the other national news station would catch wind of this story. Also read the complaint reports at www.startribune.com. Read it several times and the many times you read it, your picturing these SICKO'S doing these sick acts to someone you know personally. It just makes you upset that any of them would get away without spending time in jail. I had a relative in that facilities a few years back and i am so glad they are no longer affliated with that place. And yes a mother to one of the under age individuals works there and I can truly say that she isn't to highly cared for. Another thing while reading the reports, it makes me upset that these individuals knew they were doing wrong, but continued to do the terrible things they did. "Honor thy Mother and Father" means elderly also. A "Mortal Sin" means a felony.
Posted by jojo (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 5:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I see the story made it on the FOX news site.
Posted by wingo (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The saddest part about this whole thing are the victims and their families. I don't know what our world has come to that animal abusers get more punishment than someone who abuses our children and our elderly. I'm not saying that they are guilty without a trial, but by the sounds of Nelson and other things they probably will get off. SHAME on our court systems if they are guilty and get a way with it.
Posted by citizen07 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 5:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Using cameras to keep an eye on CNA's isn't going to happen. Privacy is a huge issue in nursing homes. There was a case in WI where CNA's thought a husband was raping his comatose wife. The cops set up a camera and found out he was doing just that. However, they couldn't use it as proof because it was an invasion of privacy (the husband had a right to privacy with his wife).
This case has brought awareness to what can happen and you can bet nursing homes will do a lot more training on mandatory reporting.
Posted by flowergirl (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 5:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
wow is all i keep thinking after reading about these nasty girls... I am a graduate of Albert Lea High School and went to school with all of these girls. i can not believe what a terrible thing they have done. It is down right disturbing! I feel so terrible for all of those innocent residents at good samaritan. i keep thinking about all of their families and can not even imagine if it was one of my family members being treated like this. Interesting enough, all of these girls have facebook but have recently deleted their accounts... hmm guess they couldn't handle dealing with this terrible crime they have committed! A few girls however have kept their facebooks and are saying they are innocent and everyone should get their facts straight. this is so humorous to me because they admitted what they did but claim they are not guilty! I hope they get what is coming for them and not just a slap on the wrist because they deserve it!
Posted by mama03 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 5:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I, for one, am glad they published the names of these girls and hope the Tribune is ABLE to find the names of the others!! Unfortunately for me, I was shocked to learn that one of the girls named has babysat for me on several occasions!! Who knows what they have done with innocent children?!?! Anytime this type of sexual abuse takes place, they should be listed as sexual offenders!!
Posted by 57boy (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 6:02 p.m.
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Posted by govikes (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 6:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Does this mean the media cannot publish your child's name?
No, it does not. Juvenile court hearings are open to the public unless closed by the court. The press is free to publish any information gathered at a public hearing. Minnesota law also permits the police to release the name and address of a child 16 years of age or older who has been arrested for a felony.
Posted by Fiona (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 6:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This story is not national it's international. I'm from Australia and was wondering why we no longer have stocks. A bit of public attention and return of the treatment they have forced onto others could do these girls a service. Whack 'em is stocks and see how they feel having things stuck where the sun don't shine!!!!
Posted by coexist (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 6:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think it is important to examine Good Sam's role in this unfortunate and sickening situation. Yes, GS hired these girls, however the facility is not responsible for the actions of these disturbed young women. The unsetteling reality is that this could have occured at any nursing facility - it just so happens that it was Good Sam. In actuality it could be happening at any given nursing home in Albert Lea or elsewhere at this very moment. There are many very competent and caring individuals that work at Good Sam, who are just as upset by this event as the rest of the public. My family has a relative at the facility and I am completely comfortable knowing that he is in just as good of hands there, as he would be at any other nursing home. Any health care facility is capable of hiring "bad" employees, as unfortunate as that is!
Also, I feel it is important to remember that not all of the girls charged participated in the abuse of the residents. Some are being charged with failure to report as mandated reporters. And although not reporting is not right, I do not feel those girls should be treated with the same contempt as those that perpetrated these horrible crimes. They were teenage girls caught in a very uncomfortable situation and were obviously not able to deal with it appropriately; however they did not physically, emotionally, or sexually abuse those under their care. Those that did should be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest!
Please keep this in mind when forming your opinions about Good Sam, as well as the girls that are being charged with not reporting.
Posted by MKMpls (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 6:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm in Minneapolis, and just saw this story on the news. My mother had Alzheimer's and passed in April 08, and thankfully was in a nursing home for just a week before she died, but it was an unhappy week. The visceral effect of this news story on me can be summed up as follows: give me 15 min. with each of those girls, though that is not what I really call them, especially the cutesy Brianna, and each would look forward to prison. I am a small framed 58 year old female, but make no mistake about it, guaranteed those smiles would forever be eliminated and they would not look so cute any more. To the local justice system: Do NOT give these creatures ANY slack. There is no room for any misplaced sympathy for these [expletives.]
Posted by FLY (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
These sadists put Albert Lea on the front page of the most highly viewed sites on the internet:
http://drudgereport.com/
Posted by terriw (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
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Posted by stewie (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 7:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Has anyone ever hear "Just not lest ye be judged"? I don't condone what happened by any means. I just don't think the threats of violence are warranted.
Some of these girls are being charged for not reporting. Ok, so they report and are still being charged for not reporting. Kind of a catch 22, wouldn't you say?
Posted by Dealer (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 8:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
These folks are a good representation of the citizens of Minnesota. Those that elected a porn writer to be a US senator.
Not to mention being the only state in the nation with the state being the number one employer. Gogo socialism!
Posted by blueboy (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 8:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I just need to say that it is true that abuse can happen anywhere and you are mistaken if you think that the administration needs to resign. They have went through a roller coaster ride from hell. MANY employees went home crying for many nights!!! For the people that think administration should have known, hasn't there ever been a time in your life that you have been shocked about something you have been told and can't believe you didn't know about? I mean think about what you are saying. These girls were very good at what they were doing. They knew how to watch out for each other. These are not stupid girls at all. Good Sam is a good place with very caring staff. There are background checks but if you've never been in trouble for these crimes before a background check does no good. I don't think the whole facility needs to be punished for what these girls did.
Posted by mrblister (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 8:17 p.m.
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Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 8:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm amazed how many people from around the country read this website and comment on what's happening in Albert Lea.
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dealer-
So you are passing judgement on me as a Minnesota citizen? I am a full time LPN, full time RN student, full time mom and wife who is honest, smart and accountable.......so how are they representing me?!? It really offends me but that obviously what you set out to do.....
Posted by rlwr51 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I could be wrong, but they seem like spoiled little rich girls who have never had to pay for the consequeses of their actions, with parents who contiually make exceptions and excuses for them. The thing about that is the longer you go with out having to pay, the higher the price. In other words the older you are when you figure out that the world doesn't revolve around you, the harder the fall. It's time for the fall, more importently, society needs to be protected from them by ensuring that they never have access to vulnerable people of any kind. I wonder if their parents are planning to have them take care of them in their old age? This is making world news because it is a most diabolical, heinus and cruel crime that most prison inmates would be incapable of.
Posted by Gladys (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I will not send my parent to any Good Samaritan facility.
The management is utterly incompetent and desperately needs to be fired.
Until Good Samaritan stops covering up for incompetence they do not deserve your faith and trust.
I don't want to hear how all the ladies of Good Samaritan were crying after work and how badly they felt.
I don't care if they feel bad. They are incompetent and need to be replaced.
The entire management needs to be replaced.
And until they are, no one should trust any Good Samaritan facility.
Believe me, they will be crying and feeling bad all over again when it happens to your parents in five years time.
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wonder what these girls' grandparents think....
Posted by free2bme (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I cannot believe that there are still people out there that think Good Sam Administration should be held liable. As soon as they heard about it they started an investigation. Like FreeBorn said that would be like blaming the congregation of the catholic church for letting priests molest innocent children. As for AmyZone, I hope you are installing a camcorder in your brothers room and the shower rooms and all the hallways, bathrooms, dining room, and anywhere else that your brother may be. Abuse can happen anywhere and that could include another nursing home in our area. My hope is that because of this becoming public people will open up their eyes and get more involved. Good Sam is not a "bad" place, it just happened to have some "bad" employees that thought they were above the law. Keep the facts straight. There are some wonderful caring trustworthy employees there, that are hurt, disappointed and embarrassed over this. How would you feel if your co-worker was accused of something so dirty and ugly as this and you had no idea it was going on. Let's keep the families out of this. Can you imagine how aweful it is for a mother, father, grandmother, grandfather to read about the disgusting things their relative did. Not only that but for the victims family....to have to rehash this over and over. I totally believe that these girls should be punished fully, but lets not start blaming the parents. Not all children grow up the way we would want them to. I don't know the parents but I can't believe that their hearts are not broken by the actions of their children.
Posted by free2bme (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Gladys, you must be a disgruntled ex-employee of Good Sam.
Posted by swimchick6 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I read all of the posts and find it very interesting what people think. I would just like to clear up a few things that I read. I worked at Good Sam for a few years before moving away for college. I was 15 or 16 at the time I started, so I am proof that young people can wok there and be responsible and caring. I couldn't imagine doing any of these horrible things to any of the residents, and it made me sick reading about what they did knowing that I took care of many of those same people. One person asked about having training for reporting, which they do during their orientation. They talk quite a bit about vulnerable adults and mandatory reporting of any abuse, so this should not be an excuse for the girls who didn't report it. I would also like to stress that Good Sam should not be looked down on for this unfortunate event. Anyone who has worked in healthcare knows that privacy is very important in the care we give. Because of this, the girls were able to hide what they were doing for as long as they did. If it was contained in their little circle, then none of the other employees would know what was going on, since all of the abuse would have occurred behind closed doors. Everyone who works at Good Sam is just as disgusted as all of you about this, so they should not have to deal with people making comments about the facility just because of these girls' actions. I think they should have to be registered as sex offenders and should never be allowed to work in the care of others. I know that most applications for these positions asks about any charges that have brought against the applicant, so hopefully they will be denied any jobs regardless of having to register or not. I just hope people can realize that Good Sam is not at fault for this, nobody there had any way of knowing what was going on due to the nature of the job. They did everything right once the abuse was discovered, so think about it a little bit before automatically assuming the facility is a dangerous place now. They still provide quality loving care, and will continue to do so.
Posted by OldTrojan (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There are no posts here that state any or all of the employees at Good Sams are bad people. I am sure that there are many great employees at this nursing home. There are posts here, some by me, that believe the administration at this nursing home managed their business very, very poorly. Bad apples can be hired at any business without management knowing until it is too late. However, again, this is a case whereby multiple bad apples were obviously hired who on several instances sexually abused multiple vulnerable residents. How can the administration not be at fault for allowing this to happen? It was not an isolated incident involving only one employee. Wow! It is obvious to me that this business has been very, very poorly managed. It is sad that the mismanagement is making employees distraught. The good employees are victims too of their poor administration.
Posted by dj8887 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 10:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
As I mentioned before please read the COMPLAINT REPORTS on these SICK individuals. They had been doing sick things to the residents on several occassions. They didn't just do it once, THEY DID SEVERAL TIMES AND GOT A LAUGH OUT OF IT!!!!!!! We are all mandated reporters whether at work or in the public and the sickos that are not being named in the paper or probably not being charged with any crime, SHOULD BE CHARGED ALSO! They knew what was going on, they talked about it with the abusers on several occassions and they laughed about it and they also had videos on their cell phones. It is just plain wrong! Who ever mentioned the "Mean Girls" title earlier is got that right about these individuals.
Posted by SRO (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 10:04 p.m.
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Posted by goodcarma (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 10:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
All of the charges listed on the complaint are only gross misdemeanors and misdemeanors. From my experience and observations, they will plead to one, maybe two, of the charges and the remainder will be dismissed. If the girls' attorneys are worth their salt, they will not want to go to trial. Nelson will not insist on a trial just to throw the book at them.
If, by chance, they do go to trial and are found guilty on all counts, the sentences will most likely be concurrent rather than consecutive.
The judge is bound by the sentencing guidelines, which means unless there are aggravating factors, they will be sentenced to no more than 1 year. Any time served will be in the county jail, not prison. That will most likely be stayed, and they will be on probation.
Nelson's threat that they will have jail hanging over their head if they get into trouble again is an empty one. Getting thrown in jail for violating probation takes a pretty serious violation.
If your kid misbehaves, you don't threaten them with punishment - you punish them. Threat of punishment is meant to deter future bad behavior. It should not be in response to bad behavior.
They were not charged with criminal sexual conduct (a felony) so they will not go to prison. Although the charge of abuse w/sexual contact might require them to register as predatory offenders, unless they serve more than 1 year they will not receive a level.
I'm not being sacastic or negative, just how I've seen things work.
As far as Stewie's comment, it only appears that one girl reported - the one who was originally in trouble. Fessing up while being questioned does not qualify as "reporting". It seems any of these girls had plenty of opportunity to report before becoming the target of the investigation.
Posted by tp2012 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What these girls did is unacceptable and unforgivable. Out of respect to the victims, their families, and anyone who has a loved one in a nursing home, these girls need to be given the MAXIMUM punishment. Anything else is simply not good enough.
Also, we deserve to know the names of the so-called "minors" who also committed these sick and twisted acts. They are just as guilty as Broitzman and Larson, AND were perfectly capable of knowing better, after all, they were 17, not 7. Try them as adults!
Posted by observer (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Here is how one of the power house web new sites views Freeborn counties finest:
The Weekly Vice Opinion:
"Well, we're going to stop the report right there. If the prosecutor filing the charges can't see these teens serving any jail time - or paying any substantial fine - then what's the point? Mr. Prosecutor, this wobbly kneed approach wouldn't have anything to do with the photos above would it?
Had these two girls been haggard old trolls with moles on their eyelids and a few teeth missing, we suspect you'd be more motivated to send a clearer message.
While we suspect the prosecutor sees this all as giggly-girl fun, we don't quite view it that way. Good God, fingers up a seniors rectum? Come on dude, grow a pair.
Thus far we have the names and some of the MySpace profiles of a few of the juveniles involved. We're going to withhold that information for now - considering a director or manager should have gotten their fat ass off a chair and paid closer attention to what was going on in that facility.
Great management, Good Samaritan. You certainly fail.
Danny Vice
The Weekly Vice
http://www.theweeklyvice.com[/QUOTE] "
Great ad campaign we have going for us huh, come to Albert Lea, we will give a job sticking fingers were the sun don't shine, and let you get away with it. Better yet lets invite all the sexual preditors here and put em to work. Maybe the extra income from their taxes will pay for Nelson's raise.
Posted by ccvilla (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 10:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I might be mistaken but i thought i read in one of the earlier stories that the prosecutor knew some of the families of the girls and the victims. That there should be reason why he shouldn't be involved in this case at all.
Posted by masamba (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:27 p.m.
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Posted by SRO (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
masamba, seems your just as sick as the ones who have mistreated the elderly.
Posted by masamba (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
By the way, where the hell is Albert Lea?
Posted by mrhappy14 (anonymous) on December 2, 2008 at 11:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Demo1960, you were very correct in your post about Mr. Nelson not doing his job and yes the citizens of Freeborn County should be outraged by his lack of commitment to his employer. Rest assured this case will not go to trial and will end in a plea. A favorable plea for the suspects and the victims with their families will be left feeling "where is the justice". It happenes over and over in this county.
As for questioning Mr. Kindler's professionalism, I can assure you his dedication to the County that employs him ensures he will and did a great job investigating this case. If there had been an issue with a family member employed at Good Sam and been directly or imdirectly involved, I can guarantee you he would have stepped aside and made sure the someone would have done the job properly. Too bad he or Villereal weren't elected as Sheriff. That department needs a serious cleaning. Freeborn County has lost a lot of good deputies since Harig and Arnold took over that Dept. Who suffers??????? The tax payers!!!!!!
Posted by Katiekalikimaka (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I was actually sickened as I read this on the Drudge Report.(And I thought I heard it all!)
How do such young women become so deranged?
I am a Registered Nurse with many years of critical care experience.
During my 4 years of college, I worked in a nursing home on school breaks and summer vacation.
Some days I would come home in tears because I felt so badly for these old lonely people. Sure, some patients can be combative, demanding or grumpy. Such is life. It is not license to carry out some from of deranged torture.
If one of these girls, as mentioned in one of the previous posts, is studying to become a nurse, she might as well pack it in. In most states, when you apply for a nursing license, you must answer questions about whether or nor you have been accused and/or convicted of any crime(s).
Sure, everyone is innocent until proven guilty.
It's my understanding from what I've read that these fools admitted to this perversion.
As far as this statement:
If found guilty, "they most likely will face suspended jail sentences and probation, so they'd have the threat of jail hanging over them if they get in more trouble," said Freeborn County Attorney Craig Nelson, who filed the charges Monday"
What the HELL is that about???
Suspended sentence?
Threat of jail?
A year?
You guys in this town/county or whatever, better take a long hard look at your elected officials.
These girls need a message sent loud and clear: People DO NOT do this to other people.
OH, but I'll bet you that some of your city/county attorneys/officials were probably some of the great Americans who were outraged at the thought of water-boarding terrorists. The same terrorists, who if given a chance would have decapitated them without a second thought.
But assaulting/abusing helpless nursing home patients physically, emotionally and sexually will get you a suspended one friggin' year sentence???
And how do they come up with "assault in the FIFTH degree" when these are some of the things done to these patients??
"Broitzman put her BARE REAR END in one resident’s face and that Larson would RUB vigorously on residents’ GENITAL AREA TO AROUSE THEM."
How are these actions NOT sexual assault???
Where was the RN who was ultimately responsible for these patients, when these sadistic, perverted girls were having their idea of a great big laugh.
Like I said in the beginning of my post, I am sickened.
Aloha from Hawaii,
Katie
Posted by amie (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:14 a.m.
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Posted by dubbyw (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In the FIRST place-those pics of those gals SHOULD have been MUG-SHOTS-not the cutesy grad pictures. That is BULL! In the 2nd place-DON'T be blaming the Mother's- these gals did this on their own-I know the Mother's-and no blame should be given there. In the 3rd place-these gals-every one of them-should be banned from ever working in ANY health care facility for life-and they SHOULD be labeled as sex offenders. I have heard that a couple of them are working over the border in Iowa in Nursing HOMES???? Get real people-is this POSSIBLE? If so-move your parents-grandparents elsewhere. They need to be charged to the mAX!!! DW
Posted by Ham (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It is terribly upsetting that Albert Lea is only known for two tragic events. These events being the burning of Farmland, and this situation commented on here. Evidently this is a despicable act. That has been stated many times before I even reached this site. I just could not read all of these comments without making one for myself. I happened to attend school with these girls, and they were unfortunately in my graduating class. I am utterly appalled by this entire situation. I can’t fathom how anyone could do such a diabolical act. The victims had no way at all to defend themselves, and that brings tears to my eyes. Imagine how horrendous it would feel to be violated, and not be able to fight back. I’d rather not even try to imagine it, because I fear I may vomit. I feel repulsed enough about this as it is. My grandmother is over ninety years old, and happens to have dementia. I was always apprehensive about her going into a nursing home, but I now I am scared to death. There is no excuse for this kind of behavior. I can’t comprehend how this was comical on some level to them. Perhaps that is because I have my head on straight. The abuse that was carried should not be taken lightly. Sure these young ladies look attractive on the outside, but the content of their souls can’t be overlooked. Now is a prime moment to insert the overly used phrase “You can’t judge a book by its cover”. I will be closely following this case, and I anticipate hearing how hard they get punished. They truly deserve a harsh sentence. No jokes here. I wonder if they think this is funny too. They won’t if I see them on the street.
Posted by coco (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Management is in desperate need of change at GSC. I was informed by a former employee in mgmt that the administrator himself passed by a young girl filling out an app. and told HR to "hire her-she's cute". Several people I know have said GSC has the worst morale ever remembered by long-time employees over the last 7-8 years since this administrator has been there. Understandably so when half the department heads now have their spouse's working there also. It's a chaotic mess that really comes as no surprise. If you're cute you're in, if you do your job, you're out. What a crying shame those residents were abused in such ways and their "elite" management didn't pick up on it.
Posted by mrhappy14 (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:15 a.m.
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Posted by Fiona (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't know how things work over there but over here the majority usually rules. If anyone gets a petition going to have the charges reviewed to the sexual assault charges that they should be let me know and I will sign. Otherwise let me know the email address of an official I can give my opinion to.
Posted by professional (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 4:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
If the administrators/management at Good Samaritan are truly upset over what these sickos did-show the public by getting involved with prosecuting them. The people who should be the most vocal and mad about the petty charges should be the nursing home itself. I understand how you can not watch each employee all of the time, but now you have the opportuniaty and responsibility to these poor victims and their families to make sure these ex-employees are prosecuted to the full extent.
siouxsuck-
You bet if it was my minor child I would want their name made public! In fact, the tribune would not have to seek out their name because I would call them myself. You know why - because I teach my children proper behavior and consequences. If they would choose intolerable behavior, they should be ready to pay the price in all forms. Kids, teenagers, and adults for that matter need to be more accountable for their actions instead of expecting the attorneys to bail them out.
Posted by Foolish (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 6:08 a.m.
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Posted by christmasgirl (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 6:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I feel so bad for these girls families. I am a graduate from ALHS and I think this is horrendous. I feel so bad for their families, how humiliating and hurtful. These girls need a much harsher punishment. One year is not enough to teach these weirdos a lesson. And that is their maximum jail time IF they get convicted? WOW. Maybe we should just slap them on the wrist and say, "It's ok, just don't do it again sweethearts!" If a guy did some of the stuff that they did to a girl who was unable to protect herself, it would be considered rape. It makes me sick to see how the school system, city, people, and especially those girl's family's reputations have been wrecked. I am embarrassed to even say that I am from Albert Lea anymore. We will forever be known as the town where those monsters who abused the elderly were from.
Posted by peckdowner (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 7:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I actually ran across this article on The Smoking Gun.
Having had a grandmother in a nursing home for 7 years, I must comment on a few things.
First about the minors not being identified...that law was made to protect minors who make "minor" mistakes when they are under 18. When a minor choses to participate in adult behavior and commits an adult crime, they should have to pay an adult consequence (hence that 8 year old boy being charged as an adult in the killing of his father and a friend). These minors should NOT be protected. This kind of activity is something that they are capable of doing again. This was not some "juvenile prank" or "unfortunate accident" this was pre-meditated sexual and elder abuse. They should be identified.
Second, they should be charged with sexual assault of an incompacitated person (or however your state law puts it). Just the mear fact that they rubbed the genitals of a patient says it all. The ones who participated in any activity that constitutes sexual acts should be charged with a sex crime and made to register for the rest of their lives, I don't care how old they were at the time of the crime.
Third, the training these kids are given is apparently not enough. These kids, when hired this young, need to be told that failure to report WILL result in criminal charges being filed. The kids did NOT report out of peer pressure. They were a click and didn't want their friends mad at them for telling. Had they known, I mean really known, that criminal charges / jail time would befall them if they didn't tell, they may have told at the beginning.
As for this prosecutor, no plea should be allowed. They should have to face the jury and let those 12 people decide the punishment of these girls. Prosecutors will generally do a plea to save the city / county money on a trial but because of the heinous nature of these crimes, I believe a trial will be money well spent. I plan to keep track of this developing story. I can't wait to see how it all plays out.
Posted by Foolish (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:06 a.m.
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Posted by Dealer (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yeah, I was stereotyping the average Minnesotan, but here's why: I lived in third-ring suburbia for ten years. I came to the realization that stupid people for the most part realize they are stupid; stupid Minnesotans however, do not.
I'm also making the assumptions that every defense of these people are coming from within the state. I seriously doubt that someone like me now living in Texas would give a rat's enough to come post supportive statements.
I heard that the DFL found another 600 votes for Frankin. How they landed in Ohio is anyone's guess...
Posted by dolphin (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am a cna and I know that if my grandparents ever had to go to a nursing home I would rather take care of them. I wouldnt want anybody treating my grandparents like that. I wonder how there own grandparents think about this. They are so disgusting they better be registered as sex offenders.
Posted by dolphin (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Where do you find there photos, i cant find them.
Posted by InterestedReader (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Mr. Happy14,
You made the comment about deputies leaving since Harig/Arnond took over, I think they have always been leaving. Maybe they are leaving b/c the pay in Freeborn County is less than other counties and the health ins. sucks. Last I heard (within the last year) for a deputy to have family ins. it costs them around $800/ month. I have a friend that is a police officer in a smaller town of about 2000 people and he only has to be around $120/month for family health ins. and his pay isnt that much lower than a Freeborn County Deputy. I suspect this could be why they are leaving, not because of Harig or Arnonld.
Posted by southernfirenice (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Why feel sorry for the parents of these deviants? They are the ones paying for the lawyers to get their precious little girls out of the trouble they got into. If they are really good parents than they need to make the girls pay for what they did. Make the county attorney throw the book at them. What messages are the parents sending these girls? "Oh it's OK to demean and commit crimes against people lower in stature than we are. We will take care of it." Maybe the parents should have some charges brought against them.
Posted by Foolish (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 8:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Wonder why my comment got removed? I didn't say nothing bad!
Here the links to the photos---
http://www.albertleatribune.com/photos/2...
Posted by None (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 9:49 a.m.
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Posted by truthshallprevail (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This is truly a devastating situation! I do feel and have compassion for the girls who instituted these crimes as well as for the victims and their families... as well as for Good Sam and Albert Lea. We are all victims, because not only were the victims abused... Good Sam and Albert Lea have had their reputations abused as well. It will take time to recover and hopefully the girls that did these terrible deeds will be punished to the full extent of the law.
Part of this problem is the leniency of society today and the de-sexualization of the last 2 generations. Sex is no big deal anymore... their parents started the process and now every generation following is getting looser and looser with their morals and we are going down a very slippery path that is very hard to reverse. Yes, the girls did wrong! But so has society... NOW is the time to fix it... not later.
Posted by MNSoldier (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dealer,
Don't lump all us Minnesotan's together, and I won't lump all Texans together, deal? Secondly, stupid people never realize they are stupid. That is what makes them stupid, do you see? Maybe you don't ...
Yes, I am sure most of those defending these sick girls are from Minnesota, and most likely from their home towns. But I am sure that is the norm for most. And for the record, I think these girls should be registered as felony sex offenders. My wife is an LPN, and has worked with VA before, as have I while attending college. That is a huge responsibility, and to behave like they have is disgusting. They should be held accountable.
Posted by NHAdmin (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 10:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am Nursing Home Administrator in Minnesota and am deeply disturbed by these acts. They MUST be listed as sexual predators and they should never have the ability to work with vulnerable adults or children in any state. We need to make sure of this by bombarding the Attorney General's office with our calls about the way this case is being prosecuted. (the number is posted above)
Nursing homes already have a negative stigma in our society and a back eye like this will continue to hinder our ability to show all of the positives things that we do. Please understand that this crime is extremely rare. All complaints and survey findings are public knowledge on the MDH website and you would be hard pressed to find another crime of this nature.
To the rest of the Good Sam staff, thank you for sticking with it and providing excellent care to your residents!
Posted by amyzone (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Free2bme... You are right. I do wish I could put a camera everywhere my brother is but I can't. I still have to trust that the majority are good people. THat people in the business are there because they care and not just because they need a job. I have to trust, but everyday that becomes harder and harder. I know Good Sam's is a good and decent place. I know that most peoples hearts are in the right places. So I apoligize. Let's just hope this brings things out so they get fixed and not covered up or brushed under the rug. I admit this hit pretty close to home. All day yesterday I felt like crying but no amount of tears or ranting and raving is going to change things. Maybe that's why I felt like crying.
Posted by yesyes (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you NA admin!! Finally a comment that gives people an action they can take to actually make a difference in this situation! Although I understand the need for people to make their voices heard in such a horrific situation, if we only rant and rave and not take any action to prevent this from happening again, we can only blame ourselves WHEN it does happen again!!! NAadmin, please repost the number you referred to and give people some ideas of what they can say when they call. Thanks, again!!!
Posted by observer (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Here is the link with numbers to the AG's office:
http://www.ag.state.mn.us/Office/Contact...
Posted by atprm_bbs (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Across the United States, we are just now learning of this ATROCITY and the punks that did this. Needless to say, we are absolutely DISGUSTED and OUTRAGED that so little, if anything will be done about these incidents. In the very least, the families of the infirmed should come forward with lawsuits against the defendants. How proud these parents of these teenagers are -- NOT! The reports of what transpired made me literally SICK to my stomach and brought a wave of tears to my eyes. This story has made an entire website of people literally sick to their stomachs. These defendants are POOR EXAMPLES of human beings and this story should be brought to the attention of Oprah Winfrey or Dr. Phil -- I think if they don't get prison time because of their actions, they should be PUBLICLY HUMILIATED on a NATIONAL LEVEL!!! It's absolutely DISGUSTING!!!
We are in Michigan and this is just horribly disgusting! No prison time? Slap on the wrist?? NURSING SCHOOL??? I think NOT!!!
We have an entire thread dedicated to updates, etc, opinions at:
http://www.bigbigforums.com/news-informa...
we have thousands of members nationwide who have read this, and we are very good at keeping it going. I believe some of the members have sent it off to people like Oprah or Dr Phil to get PUBLIC attention for it...they deserve no less...I am sure it won't be the attention they are seeking.
I believe that they should have to wear the scarlett letter A..where the A stands for ABUSER. They should NEVER be allowed to work with the elderly or with children -- ever!
As far as the minors? They aren't minors anymore-- they are all over 18 years old, and even if they weren't... you commit an adult crime, you get treated as an adult! Names published!
How disgusting.
Posted by dmb08 (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Alright I could sit here and make many comments about all of this but there is one thing mostly that is kind of bugging me, the Craig Nelson comment - "they most likely will face suspended jail sentences and probation, so they'd have the threat of jail hanging over them if they get in more trouble,". My problem with it is, I have friends and me myself that have gotten an underage drinking ticket and we have jail time hanging over our heads just for that, which means if we get caught drinking or doing something wrong again we would have a jail sentence to serve. It seems a little rediculous to me that they should only have it hanging over their heads for doing what they did, and we do have it hanging over our heads for just getting caught drinking. Seems unfair, just my opinion.
Posted by yesyes (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 11:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Let's focus on DOING something about this!!! I want to see more ideas and suggestions of what people can do, say, or write and to whom. mOre encouragement of people to take action!!! I LOVE the Oprah Winfrey and Dr. PHil ideas - after all who really are the people who get things done in our nation - the media!!
Posted by tbb08 (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
i've been reading your comments for a while now and how bad good samaritan is and as a cna i am apolled at what these girls hve done and even though i do not work for good samaritan center i do know and respect some of the people that do work there. I would like to tell the scepticsthat the GIRLS did this not everyone, and there are some wonderful people still employed at good samaritan give them a break. As for these girls I do beleive that they should get what they diserve it makes us all look bad, when, in reality most cna's are there to help the residents and families and not hurt them. So my heart goes out to the residents, families,AND STAFF of good sams I hope you all recover from this terrible ordeal and the criminals get what's comming to them!
Posted by MNSoldier (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
For those who don't want to call, you can find the contact page for Freeborn County Courts in the following website:
http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/default.asp...
Posted by Virginian (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:08 p.m.
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Posted by mnmom (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:29 p.m.
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Posted by yesyes (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:42 p.m.
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Posted by MNSoldier (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Virginian,
I am glad not one of these girls are my daughter. And if they were, I would have the same opinion. They have already admitted what they have done in interviews with police. So, based on that, I feel like I have the right to think that these girls are sick, and should spend a few years in prison. Maybe they will think that if fun, too.
Posted by ccvilla (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
not found guilty yet ?!? they admitted it . what is left to prove. they said they did it and thought it was funny... GUILTY
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:07 p.m.
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Posted by Virginian (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ccvilla are you saying they shouldn't have a court hearing??? This is America(I assume MN is still part of the US) thats the way it works here, are you from another country???
Posted by dolphin (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What time do you want to be there? HAHA
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Virginian-what's your problem?!? THEY ADMITTED IT, YES-THEY WILL GET THEIR BIASED HEARING-BUT WHY DO YOU SAY "UNITL PROVEN GUILTY??" THEY SAID THEY WERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by taxpayer (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Virginian....hopefully you live in virginia because here in Minnesota there is such thing as "Minnesota Nice" but when it comes to sexually and emotionally abusing a vulnerable adult, we can get "Mean" very quickly. I hope that these girls get some prison time because even though the individuals that are currently incarcerated are indeed criminals they tend to have a relatively high standard of morals when it comes to abusing children and/or the elderly. If indeed these girls do go to prison and when the other inmates find out the nature of their crime, justice will definately be served. What comes around, goes around.
Posted by MNSoldier (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Virginian,
Are you from another country? People can have their own opinion. And feel free to share it all they want. You must either be one of the sicko's implicated in this crime, or someone close to those freaks. But hey, I guess even you can give your opinion, too.
Posted by Virginian (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
crysandclay, Hey OJ was found NOT GUILTY on murder charges, wasn't he?????? He had his days in court didn't he????? Until the verdict is read, these girls are not guilty(.).
Posted by Virginian (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MNSoldier "You must either be one of the sicko's implicated in this crime, or someone close to those freaks."
Nope! Read my last comment.
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wish someone knew when she works......
Posted by crysandclay (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
BUT DID HE SAY HE WAS GUILTY?!??!?!??! NO!!!!!!!! HE DENIED IT-THEY ADMITTED IT! YOU ARE NUTS!
Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If these comments keep up like they are, it will reflect of the town.
Posted by taxpayer (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Virginian...First you defend them and their "rights." Then you call them "freaks." Make up your mind!!
Posted by MNSoldier (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We are not talking about OJ here. He may not have been found guilty (Money can buy a lot of things) but he was found responsible for their deaths in a later trial, and in a much more recent trial, proven that he is a violent man who thinks he is above the law. Just to let you know, I am not a judge, but I still say "Guilty" because ...
"In May 2008, Brianna Broitzman stated that she was told by Ashton Larson that she had spit water on resident GR at the Good Samaritan Center, Albert Lea, Freeborn County, Minnesota.
Brianna Broitzman admitted that she and Ashton Larson poked SW in breasts.
AMH stated that Ashton Larson would rub vigorously on residents' peri-areas (genital areas) to sexually arouse them. She recall that Ashton Larson and Brianna Broitzman talked about doing these types of things to residents on four to five occasions with the "girls."
AMH stated that she was told by Brianna Broitzman that Ashton Larson inserted her finger into a resident's rectum. Ashton Larson was present during this comversation and did not deny it.
Ashton Larson admitted that she inserted her finger into a resident's rectum. "
And there is much more. Look, I don't deny that they have to go to trial before they go to prison, and I am sure they will cry and look remorseful, but based on the facts presented in this indictment/complaint form (located http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/yea... for your reading pleasure) I think that they should go to prison for a long time.
Posted by MNSoldier (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Taxpayer,
She just repeated my comment. I called them freaks.
Posted by taxpayer (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MNSoldier...You are right. Thank you for clearing that up. Virginian....I guess I owe you an apology. I'm sorry. This is a very emotionally charged subject sometimes tempers and opinions override our ability to read the entire comment. Again, my apologies.
Posted by atprm_bbs (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
the story is now national, and where most of us had no idea that an "Albert Lea, MN" existed in the past...we certainly are aware of it now!
This story will not die or just go away -- especially if nothing is done as punishment.
Many of us have contacted (but many more should anyway) Dr Phil, Oprah Winfrey, 20/20 and Dateline -- perhaps Larry King, Keith Oberman, and the like would pick up the story and give it the NATIONAL attention it deserves.
It thoroughly disgusts me, and I am in Michigan, that Ashton managed to get a job at Subway after admitting she spit in someone's mouth (let alone the other admissions)...that Subway would knowingly hire someone to work with FOOD.
Anyone (maybe everyone) should contact Subway and let them know they won't be eating their food in protest.
you can find that this thread is not soon to die in the near future here:
http://www.bigbigforums.com/news-informa...
Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
atprm-bbs, WHY do you want to make this national. Do you want Albert Lea to become know for this!
Posted by agamboa (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Although it seems the victims will not get the justice they diserve it definitely seems this is getting nationwide attention and I hope that leads to something other than what is being put on the table...abcnews.com has the story on there homepage now...heres the direct link http://abcnews.go.com/TheLaw/story?id=63...
Posted by yesyes (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AMEN, atprmbbs!!!! I definatly will be calling Subway. Wildbill, the purpose for making it National is insure that something is done and if these girls are not held accountable by making it national surely there would be a better chance for legislation to be changed so that this would not happen again. If it can happen here it can happen anywhere and people need to know what is going on so changes can be made and others can feel the pressure to hold these girls accountable for their incredibly horrible acts against helpless vulnerable people. If AL has to have a red mark then so be it as long as justice rules!!!
Posted by atprm_bbs (anonymous) on December 3, 2008 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
why make it national?? Because if the local attorney won't press the charges and give punishment where punishment is due, then the national attention of it -- the voice of the people speaking for those who can't -- need to!
If it makes your town look bad, then you need to be as outraged as the rest of the nation!
Who is going to take up for the residents who were violated?
This is beyond disturbing! The threat of jail is a joke!
Because the attorney knows the famili