Attorney General Kwame Raoul has announced charges against a caregiver from DuPage County following an incident that led to an elderly resident suffering second-degree burns. Darnitia Conner, 58, from Glendale Heights, Illinois, faces three counts of abuse and two counts of criminal neglect of a long-term care facility resident. She is also charged with reckless conduct. Each Class 3 felony charge carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison, while the Class 4 felony could result in up to three years.
Raoul stated, “Residents of long-term care facilities and community-based group homes rely on caretakers for their health and wellness. All Illinois residents deserve to be safe in their homes, and it is appalling that any caretaker would cause serious harm to an elderly or vulnerable patient in their care.” He emphasized his commitment to protecting seniors and people with disabilities in Illinois.
Conner allegedly failed to check water temperature before placing a resident in a hot shower at a Ray Graham Association home in Bensenville last June. The resulting burns affected most of the resident's lower body. Raoul’s office claims Conner did not report the incident or seek medical attention for the injuries.
The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the investigation. Sheriff James Mendrick commented on the collaboration between agencies: "This successful indictment could not have taken place without the hard work and collaboration of DuPage County Patrol Deputies, Forensic Investigations Unit, Investigations and the State of Illinois Attorney General Office Investigators." He added that it was disturbing for someone in a position of trust to cause harm through abuse and neglect.
Conner pleaded not guilty; her next court appearance is scheduled for March 10. Deputy Chief Steven Krueger managed the case within Raoul’s Medicaid Fraud Unit. The public is reminded that Conner remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.