DUNEDIN – Pinellas Sheriff’s Office detectives have arrested 35-year-old Nicholas Brown of St. Petersburg on two counts of abuse or neglect of an aged or disabled person following incidents at a local nursing home.
The investigation began on December 23, 2024, after reports that two residents of Lake Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility, located at 1351 San Christopher Drive, were assaulted by an employee.
Detectives revealed that Brown, a Certified Nursing Assistant, struck two disabled residents during his shift. The victims, both adult males, include one with a traumatic brain injury and another who is quadriplegic with intellectual disabilities. Both victims are non-verbal and unable to communicate.
A witness, who is also an employee at the facility, reported seeing Brown strike the residents multiple times on their legs, sides, and buttocks with an open hand. The victims were treated at the facility for non-life-threatening injuries.
On January 7, 2025, Brown was arrested and charged with two counts of abuse or neglect of an aged or disabled person. He was booked into the Pinellas County Jail, and his employment was terminated as a result of the investigation.
Authorities ask anyone with additional information or knowledge of other potential victims to contact Corporal Antonio at 727-582-6722.