Guilty verdict after man chokes in care

By Cathy Reay

A care home operator and one of its managers have been found guilty of  breaching health and safety laws after a resident choked to death while in their care.

Robinia Care Group Ltd, based in Enfield, and two former employees, including manager Patience Etchu-Abangma, were charged after resident Jesse Moores (pictured) died after choking on a sandwich in November 2005.

Jurors at Wood Green Crown Court heard that 26 year old Mr Moores, who was autistic, had Tourette’s Syndrome and a history of choking, was left for 15 minutes while he choked.

Etchu-Abangma, who was not on duty at the time of the incident but had gone into work as they were short-staffed, left shortly after to attend to her secret second job, which she had not told her employer about. The staff on duty called her for advice when they found Mr Moores choking.

Care home manager Gideon Attram, who was also on trial, was found not guilty. The court was adjourned until April for sentencing.

Bob Moores, Jesse’s father, said: “I wholeheartedly support the action that Enfield Council has been taking in getting justice for my son Jesse.  This has been an extremely difficult time, and whilst nothing can undo the events of the 3rd November 2005, if lessons are learned, then my son’s death will not be in vain.”

A spokesman for Enfield County Council said: “We are determined to ensure that the most vulnerable members of our community are treated with respect, dignity and a high standard of care. We will not hesitate in taking any future action in order to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable people.”
2 March 2009