Teens accused of videotaping abuse of resident at care center

ST. CHARLES – Two certified nursing aides at Rosewood Care Center in St. Charles have been fired over allegations they physically abused an elderly resident, officials said Friday.

St. Charles police responded Thursday to the care center at 850 Dunham Road, St. Charles, after the administrator reported that two employees – Jacqueline Santos and Chemyra Barnett, both 18 – physically abused a 97-year-old woman and videotaped the incident, police spokeswoman Lisa Blackwell said.

She said she did not know what device was used to record the incident.

The incident reportedly happened Tuesday in the resident’s room. Blackwell said the administrator notified police when a third party alerted her to it.

Rosewood administrator Ivy Gleeson said the employees, who had worked at the center for about six months, were terminated immediately.
She said the resident was not injured and emphasized that Rosewood's goal is the residents' safety.

“We will do everything within our control and power to make sure our residents are safe,” Gleeson said.

Santos, of the 1300 block of Timber Lane, South Elgin, and Barnett, of the 300 block of Watch Court, South Elgin, were each charged with aggravated battery of a person older than 60, a Class 3 felony, and unlawful videotaping, a Class 4 felony.

They were reportedly taken to the Kane County Jail. Online records indicate each of their bonds was set at $15,000 and that they are expected in court March 27.

Those with additional information or concerns can contact the St. Charles Police Department at 630-377-4435 or the Drug & Crime Tip Line at 866-378-4267.

“Our investigation is continuing,” Blackwell said.