‘I knew that she was hateful’: Caregiver at nursing home watched and did nothing as elderly dementia patient collapsed, cops say
A Georgia caregiver is facing criminal charges after authorities say she recorded an elderly dementia patient falling from his chair and suffering injuries without offering assistance. The disturbing case has sparked outrage among family members, former coworkers, and elder-care advocates after video evidence allegedly showed the worker watching the incident unfold instead of helping the vulnerable resident.
The accused caregiver, 63-year-old Ann Cowan, was arrested following an investigation into her treatment of an 83-year-old man suffering from dementia at Corinth Road Personal Care Home in Newnan, Georgia, a city located roughly 40 miles southwest of Atlanta. Authorities allege that Cowan exploited and intimidated the elderly resident while he was under her care.
Video Allegedly Captured Patient’s Fall
According to reports reviewed by investigators, Cowan allegedly used her phone to record the elderly man as he sat precariously near the edge of a chair. In the footage, she can reportedly be heard asking him whether he was about to “slide off” the seat.
Moments later, the man fell from the chair and struck his head against a nearby bed. Instead of immediately helping him, Cowan allegedly moved closer with her camera to continue filming the incident. Authorities say the resident was left writhing in pain on the floor while the caregiver continued recording.
Investigators said the video included Cowan making remarks such as, “I just needed this video so your nurse knows what’s going on. Thank you, love,” while the injured resident remained on the floor.
Criminal Charges Filed
Following an investigation by the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, Cowan was arrested and charged with two counts of exploitation and intimidation of disabled adults, elderly persons, and residents. Authorities reviewed multiple allegations involving her conduct at the care facility before filing charges.
Officials also examined photographs and reports that allegedly showed other questionable treatment of residents, including claims that medication had been placed in a location inaccessible to a wheelchair-bound patient.
Cowan was booked into the Coweta County Jail and was being held on a bond of approximately $10,300, according to local reports.
Daughter Says Father’s Health Rapidly Declined
The victim’s daughter, Danielle Slappey, has been outspoken about her father’s treatment since learning of the allegations.
According to Slappey, she cared for her father for seven years before he entered the personal care home on April 25. Because of his dementia and vision problems, she believed he required a safe and supportive environment with proper supervision.
Concerns About Wheelchair Use
Slappey claimed that shortly after arriving at the facility, her father was placed in a wheelchair because staff considered him a fall risk. She argued that her father was capable of using a walker or walking with assistance and alleged that his mobility was unnecessarily restricted.
In social media posts, she expressed frustration that the facility had effectively taken away her father’s ability to move independently. She claimed he was often forced to remain in a wheelchair or a geriatric chair despite being capable of greater mobility.
Hospitalization Raised Alarm Bells
The daughter also alleged that less than a week after entering the facility, her father was transported to a hospital after being found unresponsive. Following that incident, she said his physical condition appeared to deteriorate rapidly.
Slappey reported seeing photographs of injuries, including bloodied hands and bruises, and claimed it became increasingly difficult for family members to communicate with him while he remained at the home.
Family Claims Warnings Were Ignored
One of the most troubling aspects of the case involves claims that the elderly resident had repeatedly complained about Cowan’s behavior before the alleged abuse came to light.
Daughter Initially Doubted Father’s Complaints
Slappey acknowledged that she initially struggled to believe some of the allegations her father made regarding Cowan’s treatment of him. However, as additional information emerged and more reports surfaced, she became convinced that his concerns were legitimate.
She later stated publicly that she had learned from multiple sources that complaints about Cowan’s conduct had allegedly been made before, leading her to question why stronger action had not been taken sooner.
Public Criticism of Facility
After removing her father from the care home, Slappey publicly condemned the facility, describing her experience as deeply disturbing and urging others not to place loved ones there. She accused management of negligence and argued that stronger oversight was needed to protect elderly residents.
Former Coworker Describes Troubling Encounter
As news of the arrest spread, a former coworker of Cowan came forward with her own allegations.
Previous Incident With Another Dementia Patient
Brittney McPhail told local media that she had previously witnessed Cowan behaving aggressively toward another elderly man with dementia. According to McPhail, the resident reached toward Cowan, after which she allegedly grabbed his wrist, bent it backward, and threatened him.
McPhail said she was shocked by the extent of the behavior revealed in the latest allegations.
“I Knew That She Was Hateful”
In comments that drew widespread attention, McPhail stated: “I knew that she was hateful, but I never realized she was that hateful.” The remark reflected the reaction of many observers who were disturbed by the allegations surrounding the treatment of vulnerable residents.
Care Home Distances Itself From Accused Worker
Following Cowan’s arrest, employees at Corinth Road Personal Care Home reportedly confirmed that she was no longer employed at the facility. Authorities have indicated that she was believed to have held an ownership role connected to the operation at some point, making the allegations even more significant.
The facility has faced increased scrutiny as investigators continue examining complaints connected to resident care.
Adult Protective Services Complaints Filed
In addition to the criminal investigation, Slappey filed complaints with Georgia Adult Protective Services, seeking a broader review of the treatment her father received. She has repeatedly called for stronger protections for elderly residents who may be unable to advocate for themselves because of dementia or other cognitive impairments.
Family Focused on Recovery
Since being removed from the facility, the 83-year-old man has been transferred to another care center in Columbus, Georgia. According to his daughter, his condition has improved since the move. She reported that he was no longer confined to a wheelchair and had begun moving around more effectively.
Investigation Continues
The case has reignited concerns about elder abuse and neglect within long-term care facilities. Investigators continue to review evidence and allegations related to the care home while Cowan faces criminal proceedings. The incident has also highlighted the vulnerability of dementia patients, who often depend entirely on caregivers for safety, dignity, and protection.
For Danielle Slappey, the arrest represented a significant step toward accountability. After learning of the charges, she publicly expressed relief and gratitude that authorities had taken action, while continuing to advocate for better treatment of elderly residents in care facilities.
