Arrest and Allegations
A 45-year-old nurse from Leuven has been taken into custody following the suspicious deaths of two elderly residents at a care home in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, Belgium. The arrest occurred after an investigation was launched into the deaths of a 96-year-old woman and an 80-year-old man, who passed away on October 5 and October 7, respectively. Authorities suspect the nurse administered an incorrect dose of morphine to the patients.
Timeline of Events and Investigation
Concerns were first raised after the second death, prompting the care home manager to contact the police. An immediate investigation was initiated, involving a forensic team, a medical examiner, and an investigating judge who visited the care facility. Autopsies were subsequently ordered for both deceased residents to determine the exact cause of death.
On Wednesday, police conducted a search of the nurse's home before detaining him. He was then questioned by the investigating judge and has since been placed under judicial custody. The Office of the Public Prosecutor (OPP) in Leuven confirmed the arrest, stating that the judge believes there is 'sufficient evidence indicating the prescribed morphine dosage was not followed'. The nurse is suspected of 'intentionally administering harmful substances without intent to kill, but with death as a consequence'.
Legal Proceedings and Care Home Response
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the council chamber on Tuesday, where a decision will be made regarding his continued detention. The investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding the deaths is ongoing.
Armonea, the group operating the care home, has issued a statement confirming their full cooperation with the authorities. They indicated that internal signals prompted them to take immediate measures and inform both the Agency for Care and Health and the police. The care home group stated, 'We work completely mee and follow the guidelines of the competent authorities. As soon as internal signals arose that raised questions, the management immediately took the correct measures and informed the Agency for Care and Health and the police.'
5 Comments
Leonardo
Relieved authorities acted quickly on this. Patients deserve safety.
Michelangelo
This highlights severe failures in elderly care oversight.
Raphael
The care home needs to answer for this too. Unacceptable.
Bermudez
The care home's cooperation is positive, but this incident raises serious questions about their internal drug management and staff training protocols. There's always room for improvement in preventing such tragedies.
ZmeeLove
This arrest sends a clear message. No one is above accountability.