Authorities in Dorohoi have uncovered serious irregularities at a care center for adults with disabilities, raising alarming concerns about the welfare of its residents. Inspections carried out by the National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC) revealed that the center, which is operated by the "Dă speranța vieții" Association, was exceeding its authorized capacity significantly. While the center is licensed to accommodate only 25 beneficiaries, inspectors found a staggering 37 individuals housed in unauthorized and unsuitable annexes.
The inspection, prompted by a complaint, disclosed numerous violations that could jeopardize the health and safety of the residents. ANPC officials noted, "The service provided can affect the life, health, or safety of consumers." Among the irregularities were unsanitary conditions characterized by mold and infiltrations in walls and floors, as well as public catering areas that were filthy, with layers of dirt, grease, and burnt food.
In addition to the overcrowding, inspectors discovered that the elderly residents were often crammed into dark rooms without adequate lighting. Some had visible wounds on their bodies, suggesting neglect. "One beneficiary has horrific wounds on her face and eye," stated an inspector, highlighting the dire state of care being provided.
The inspection revealed more disturbing findings, including hundreds of boxes of expired medicines and contracts indicating that beneficiaries were ceding their homes to the center's administrator. These contracts raised suspicions of financial abuse, as they appeared to exploit the vulnerable residents. The center's operator has since been fined a total of 45,000 lei for these violations.
As a direct result of the findings, the ANPC has temporarily suspended the food service operations at the center, deeming them a risk to the beneficiaries’ health. "In the food block, non-compliant products with expired dates and altered initial thermal states were identified, along with hot food served at improper temperatures," the ANPC reported.
In a related development, the Botoșani Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation into a suspicious death linked to the center. On the same day as the inspections, authorities ordered the exhumation of a deceased resident's body and conducted a thorough search of the facility, uncovering further irregularities. The investigation also revealed indications of other potential offenses related to the center's operations.
During the search, it was noted that the medical staff appeared ill-equipped to handle the situation. A recently hired assistant, who was only 21 or 22 years old, was identified as the administrator's niece, raising questions about the qualifications and training of the staff responsible for the care of the residents.
These findings echo a previous scandal in 2023, where similar abuses were uncovered in care facilities across Ilfov, highlighting a troubling pattern of neglect and mismanagement in the care of vulnerable populations in Romania.
The Dorohoi case has sparked outrage among local officials and advocates for the rights of disabled individuals. "We must ensure that the most vulnerable members of our society are protected and treated with dignity," said a local representative. "This situation is unacceptable and must be addressed immediately to prevent further harm to the residents of this center."
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to relocate the 37 residents found in unauthorized conditions to safer environments, either with family members or alternative facilities. The ANPC has committed to monitoring the situation closely to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in the future.
The revelations from Dorohoi serve as a stark reminder of the need for stringent oversight and accountability in care facilities, where the well-being of residents should be the utmost priority. Advocates are calling for systemic reforms to improve care standards and protect the rights of those who cannot advocate for themselves.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for the public and authorities to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that such violations do not occur again. The welfare of society's most vulnerable members depends on the collective efforts of the community to demand better conditions and accountability from care providers.
