An expert investigation by SAPOL’s Major Crime division and SafeWork SA has led to two directors of the company tasked with caring for Ann Marie Smith to be criminally charged.
Ms Smith, 54, died from septic shock and multi-organ failure from severe pressure sores in the Royal Adelaide Hospital on April 6 2020.
Today, Friday 10 June, SAPOL charged two directors of ICSA and the company with criminal neglect causing death and with failing to comply with a health and safety duty that exposed Ms Smith to risk of death, serious injury or illness.
The weight of the offences cannot be underestimated.
The State Government is pleased the matter has been treated with great seriousness, to show the community that South Australia’s law enforcement and watchdog bodies has a zero-tolerance approach to the neglect of those living with a disability.
Quotes
Attributable to Joe Szakacs
The expertise of both Major Crime and Safework SA to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged offences leaves the community in safe hands to prevent further horrific abuse of South Australians living with a disability.
This is an appropriate first step in carrying out justice for Ann Marie Smith.
Attributable to Nat Cook
There is no place in our community for anyone that neglects and fails to care for someone that is living with a disability.
I welcome news that both directors and the company ICSA have been charged with criminal neglect causing death as it sends a very strong message about the importance we place on those in our community who are marginalised.
This will and must send a very strong message that we have zero tolerance of people that take advantage of those in our community who deserve our support.
