Police investigate sexual abuse at Rochester assisted living facility

Police are investigating incidents at a Rochester assisted living facility in which two residents reported being sexually assaulted by a staff member.

A recently released Minnesota Department of Health investigation substantiated the claims, finding that abuse did occur at the Madonna Meadows assisted living community.

According to the health department report, the residents, both women, required partial assistance while showering and were assaulted by the male staff member who was helping them. The allegations were first reported in late December.

Janis Kivela Hooey, community affairs manager for the Benedictine Health System, which manages Madonna Meadows, confirmed that the staff member was terminated. The health department report said the facility was in compliance, because it provided staff training on abuse and neglect and took action when the allegations surfaced.

The case is now being handled by the Rochester Police Department, which will determine whether to forward information to the Olmsted County Attorney for possible criminal charges.

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