May 17, 2017
Las Vegas, NV – Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt announced today that Magdalena Luvisminda Villanueva, 76, was sentenced for Neglect of Duty in Willful or Wanton Disregard of Safety of a Person, a gross misdemeanor offense.
District Court Judge Jennifer Togliatti sentenced Villanueva to 179 days incarceration (suspended), pay $3,000 in enforcement costs, and placed her on probation for 3 years. During this probationary period, Villanueva is not allowed to seek or obtain employment as a licensed owner, administrator or caregiver in a medical facility. The crime occurred during January, February and December 2015.
“This office has an obligation to assist our elderly citizens whenever possible and to ensure they are receiving proper care and attention,” said Laxalt. “Prosecuting these cases promotes safe living environments for our elderly.”
The investigation began after the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) received information from Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) of possible neglect happening at Walnut Retirement Home (Walnut). The investigation revealed that Villanueva, who was a caregiver, acting administrator and the owner of Walnut, did fail to follow duties imposed on her by law. Specifically, Villanueva admitted residents to Walnut that were beyond the level of care that could be provided by Walnut. Villanueva also failed to ensure the safety of the residents but failing to ensure Walnut was clean and well maintained.
The MFCU investigates and prosecutes financial fraud by those providing healthcare services or goods to Medicaid patients. The MFCU also investigates and prosecutes instances of elder abuse or neglect. Persons convicted of Medicaid fraud may also be administratively excluded from future Medicaid and Medicare participation. Anyone wishing to report suspicions regarding any of these concerns may contact the MFCU at 702-486-3420 or 775-684-1100. Click here to file a complaint.
The case was prosecuted by Andrew Schulke, Senior Deputy Attorney General.
VILLANUEVA, MAGDALENA
(Photo courtesy of
the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department)
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