(VANDERBURGH) – A Vanderburgh County judge on Wednesday handed down an 820-day sentence to an Evansville certified nurse aide (CNA) who pleaded guilty to three counts of neglect of a dependent following an investigation by the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU).
Gloria Welborn was fired from her position at Golden LivingCenter – Woodbridge, an Evansville skilled nursing facility after allegations arose that she administered her medication to three residents of the facility.
The three residents all had behavioral issues resulting from their medical conditions. The medication given to them by Welborn, Clonazepam, is used to treat anxiety, panic disorder, and seizures.
Welborn eventually confessed to the allegations when interviewed by MFCU investigators. Charges are also pending against a nurse on duty who became aware of Welborn’s actions but delayed reporting them.
Vanderburgh County authorities referred both of these cases to the Office of the Attorney General for prosecution.
“Yet again, we are working to ensure that professionals in positions of trust are held accountable for their actions,” Attorney General Curtis Hill said. “Further, we always appreciate the confidence placed in our office when local prosecutors enlist the services of our attorneys in criminal cases. Collaboration and partnerships are important keys to achieving positive results for Hoosiers.”
Welborn’s 820-day sentence was suspended, and she will be on probation for the duration. Her convictions may be reduced to misdemeanors if she successfully completes the terms of her probation.
