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A CBS Chicago investigation into the Shapiro Developmental
Center in Kankakee shows physical abuse of a patient happening
within the facility run by the Department of Human Services. The
investigation includes a video of a former employee that shows a
worker grabbing a resident by the sweatshirt's hood and cites
incidents of starvation and strangulation.
Illinois legislators reacted to the allegations with disgust and
are pushing for legislation to stop the abuse.
State Rep. Charlie Meier, R-Okawville, filed three measures as
part of his “Help Protect Us and Improve Our Home” initiative,
which he hopes to discuss during the fall veto session.
“I hope we discuss some of these issues during veto. I just
started drafting a bill yesterday on trying to do a pilot
program with the workers," Meier told The Center Square. "I
think some Dems maybe will like it.”
House Assistant Minority Leader Jackie Haas, R-Kankakee, has now
offered her support for the measures after the incidents in her
district.
“These centers are their homes, and they deserve to be treated
with basic dignity and compassion," Haas said. “I will work with
Rep. Meier to ensure these residents at the Shapiro Center and
across Illinois receive the best quality care that is
administered with respect and empathy in the places they call
home.”
The allegations at Shapiro have opened an investigation by the
Illinois State Police and the Illinois Inspector General.
“I hope the Inspector General acts quickly on this
investigation,” Meier said. “This is why our plan to improve the
safety of our most vulnerable includes the installation of
cameras at Shapiro and all state-operated Developmental
Centers.”
Other changes suggested in the measures include a mass hiring of
qualified staff, an increase in administrative and security
inspections, and an improved effort to remind employees if they
see something is wrong, report it.
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