CARER AVOIDS PRISON AFTER BITING DEMENTIA PATIENT
A caregiver named Sandra Lund, age 54, was involved in an incident at North Yorkshire County Council’s Limestone View care home, where she reportedly bit and kicked a resident suffering from dementia.In her trial at Skipton Magistrates Court, authorities stated that Lund escaped immediate imprisonment, instead being given a community sentence.
The court records indicated that Lund kicked the woman once and bit her hand in an attempt to make her let go of her painful hold.
The assault was observed by another staff member and caused the resident to scream, resulting in a bleeding injury on her right finger.
Lund pleaded not guilty to assault by beating but was found guilty after proceedings.
She claimed she did not bite or kick the resident, explaining she was trying to help her into the bathroom when she supposedly slipped and cut her hand with a nail, causing a slight wound.
Testimony from colleague Elena Snepsta revealed that Lund had told the resident to 'stop acting like a child' before kicking her leg and biting her hand.
The court noted that the resident often showed violent behavior because of her worsening dementia, and her care provider, Housing 21, confirmed she was no longer living at the home due to her aggressive tendencies and need for high-level care.
Lund was sentenced to a year of community service, including 20 rehabilitation days and 150 hours of unpaid work.
She was also ordered to pay £860 in court costs.
Ms Mackenzie, chairing the court, emphasized the victim’s vulnerability and warned that violating the community order could lead to increased sanctions.
