Hemet – A care facility is under investigation after allegations of elder abuse and neglect.
Investigation and Arrest
In 2025, an Ombudsman representative with the California Department of Aging requested aid from the Hemet Sheriff’s Station regarding a complaint alleging general neglect of a patient residing at an assisted living and memory care facility, located in the 26000 block of Cornell Street in the unincorporated area of Hemet.
An investigation found additional victims of elder abuse and neglect, as well as inadequate standards in both patient care and staff service. was obtained, the size and scope of the investigation increased, requiring assistance from the Department of Justice’s Division of Medical Fraud and Elder Abuse, and other county agencies. Based on the information obtained during the investigation, investigators obtained a search warrant for the location.
On June 10, 2026, the Riverside Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Justice served a search warrant at the location alongside personnel from Riverside University Health System, the California Department of Aging, Adult Protective Services, and the Community Care Licensing Department. Several residents in need of further medical care and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Elder Abuse Laws in California
One of the primary statutes governing elder abuse cases is California Penal Code §368, which makes it a crime to abuse, neglect, or financially exploit a dependent person aged 18-64 with restrictions.
Under this law, individuals can face criminal charges for:
- Willfully causing or permitting unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering
- Neglecting the basic needs
- Financial exploitation or fraud targeting dependent individuals
- Endangerment that could cause injury or death
Depending on the severity of the conduct, dependent adult abuse charges may be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or felonies. In cases involving neglect, the law often focuses on whether a caregiver failed to provide necessary care, including food, medical attention, supervision, or safe living conditions.
Civil Liability and Dependent Adult Abuse Claims
When individuals suffer harm due to neglect or exploitation, families may also pursue civil claims under the California Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (Welfare and Institutions Code §15600 et seq.). Such claims may arise when a caregiver or facility fails to adequately meet patients’ needs, maintains unsafe living conditions, or financially exploits their patients.
Civil actions can seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages if a resident dies due to neglect
Importantly, California law provides enhanced remedies in certain dependent adult abuse cases, including attorney’s fees and additional damages when misconduct involves recklessness, oppression, fraud, or malice.
Protecting Vulnerable Adults
Families placing loved ones in care should consider the following:
- Verify facility licensing through the California Community Care Licensing database.
- Review inspection reports and complaint history before placement.
- Visit regularly and observe living conditions.
- Watch for warning signs of neglect, including weight loss, untreated medical issues, or sudden behavioral changes.
Any concerns can be reported to Adult Protective Services (APS) or local law enforcement.
Seeking Accountability for Dependent Adult Abuse
If your loved one has experienced neglect, abuse, or exploitation from a caretaker such as this incident in Hemet, The Sehat Law Firm can help evaluate your legal options. You can contact the firm at (949) 825-5200 or submit an inquiry through the contact form at the bottom of the website to discuss your situation.
Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal or medical advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary and any referenced here may not apply to your situation. This article was created from secondary sources and so may not be completely accurate. If you have any concerns, please contact us, and we’ll update or remove the post as needed.
