Friday, May 25, 2007

State of Ohio puts Cleveland Psychiatric Unit on probation in rape probe

From the Akron Beacon Journal

The state has placed the inpatient psychiatric unit of University Hospitals of Cleveland on probation following allegations of two rapes and two sexual assaults against patients on the same day, the Ohio Department of Mental Health said Friday.

The allegations against an outside agency employee were turned over to police for investigation and a suspect was taken into police custody, according to the probation letter sent to University Hospitals. The attacks against four patients are alleged to have occurred May 11.

The state warned University Hospitals that it must make changes to provide a safe environment for patients.

Probation won't prevent the unit from admitting patients, state agency spokeswoman Laura Wentz said.

University Hospitals said it was proud of its care in the psychiatric unit, which it said would be moved soon to renovated facilities.

Loree Vick, spokeswoman for University Hospitals, said she could not provide details on the alleged attacks or the suspect.

University Hospitals also was ordered to repair rusted shower-room ceilings and vents.

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