HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — A respiratory therapist was charged with multiple counts of assault this week after detectives determined he had abused an 86-year-old woman in a Hudson County nursing home, officials said.
Harry Elias, 69, of Belleville was arrested by North Bergen police after the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office received a report of abuse at the Harborage Nursing Facility in North Bergen, officials said.
Elias was charged with two counts of aggravated assault and and four counts of assault of an institutionalized elderly person, said the North Bergen police on Thursday night.
Elias allegedly abused the patient on several days last month and this month, police said.
Elias was arrested at his home on Tuesday and taken to the Hudson County Correctional Facility to await his first court appearance, police said.
“This case represents a serious breach of trust involving one of our most vulnerable residents," said North Bergen Police Chief Robert Farley. "We remain committed to thoroughly investigating allegations of abuse and ensuring those responsible are held accountable."
Police said the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Bergen Police Department at (201) 392-2141 or submit anonymous tips to tips@northbergenpd.com.
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