BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — A certified nurse aide at McAuley Residence nursing home has been charged after allegedly sexually assaulting an elderly resident earlier this month, according to the New York State Attorney General's Office.
Isiah Favors, 38, of Buffalo, has been charged with second-degree rape and first-degree endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person.
According to the AG's office, just after 12 a.m. on July 7, Favors allegedly sexually assaulted an elderly and mentally disabled woman in her room at McAuley Residence. The AG's office said he allegedly performed oral sex on the woman.
A witness reported the incident immediately to the facility's management. The woman was taken to the hospital, and a rape kit test was conducted. Police reported the matter to OAG.
WATCH: Buffalo nursing home worker charged after allegedly sexually assaulting a resident
Favors was arraigned on Wednesday in Tonawanda Town Court and is being held with bail at $100,000 cash or a partially secured surety bond. He faces a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison if convicted of the top count.
This investigation is ongoing.
New York Attorney General Letitia James issued this statement:
"My prayers are with the victim and their family who deserve justice after enduring this horrific crime. My office is conducting a full investigation, and we will use every resource at our disposal to deliver justice in this case and ensure all nursing home residents are kept safe. I thank our partners in law enforcement for their collaboration in this investigation"
Catholic Health released this statement to 7 News:
"Earlier this month, an allegation of sexual assault against one of our residents was reported at The McAuley Residence, a long-term care and subacute care facility. We immediately removed the accused associate from the facility and alerted law enforcement and the New York State Department of Health. We have cooperated fully with the investigations and remain committed to supporting them as they continue.
From the start, our priority has always been—and will remain—maintaining the safety, dignity, and well-being of our residents, visitors, and associates. We respect the investigative and legal process, and we are grateful to our law enforcement and regulatory agency partners for their swift and professional response to this matter. We will continue to support our residents, their families, and our associates through this difficult situation."
I spoke with Michael Scinta, a personal injury attorney with Brown Chiari, specializing in nursing home abuse. He said cases involving residents with dementia can be especially difficult because some victims may not be able to fully communicate what happened.
"Oftentimes dementia is an unmet need, and you'll see somebody acting differently because they've been through a traumatic experience. Despite having dementia, some symptoms and conditions can develop as a result of that," Scinta said.
He also said family members play a critical role in recognizing changes and advocating for their loved ones.
"These residents have rights, regardless of dementia or what their cognitive state is," he said. "They have rights that have to be protected. They're vulnerable people, and that's why we have these laws on the books. To protect people who can't protect themselves."
WATCH: Buffalo nursing home worker charged after allegedly sexually assaulting a resident
