We filed a lawsuit on behalf of Joel Nunez, an incapacitated adult resident of Pennsylvania, against UHS of Doylestown, LLC, doing business as Foundations Behavioral Health. We are fighting for the rights and dignity of sexual abuse survivors. Our dedication to seeking justice for those who have been wronged is at the core of our practice.
Understanding the Case Against Foundations Behavioral Health
Joel Nunez brings this action through his court-appointed guardian, Araceli Nunez, who suffers from multiple disorders and mental health diagnoses that impair his ability to communicate and evaluate information effectively. Due to his condition, Joel requires substantial support in all aspects of his life. At the time of the incident, Joel resided at the Foundations Behavioral Health facility at 833 East Butler Pike, Doylestown, Bucks County, PA.
On June 26, 2022, Joel was brutally assaulted by a Foundations employee, Jophany Raphael. The attack occurred after Raphael followed Joel into his bedroom, blocked his exit, and then pushed him to the floor, repeatedly kicking him in the head, chest, and abdomen. Disturbingly, other staff members witnessed the assault but did not intervene.
Despite Joel’s evident injuries, the staff delayed seeking immediate medical attention. Instead, they put Joel in a shower and observed his bruises and red marks. It wasn’t until two days later that Joel was sent to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Raphael has since pleaded guilty to simple assault in the Court of Common Pleas of Bucks County.
Holding Foundations Behavioral Health Accountable
Our lawsuit alleges negligence, gross negligence, carelessness, and recklessness on the part of Foundations Behavioral Health. We assert that the facility failed to implement and enforce abuse prevention policies, inadequately screened and supervised staff, and delayed providing necessary medical attention to Joel. The complaint seeks both compensatory and punitive damages for the severe emotional, psychological, and physical harm Joel has endured.
Before this incident, Foundations Behavioral Health had received several non-compliant inspections and citations from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. These red flags highlight a troubling pattern of negligence and a failure to protect vulnerable individuals in their care.
Our Commitment to Justice
Seeking Change and Awareness
Beyond seeking justice for Joel, we aim to illuminate the systemic issues that allowed this abuse. We hope this lawsuit will lead to reforms that prevent such atrocities in the future. Thus, ensuring that all individuals in care facilities are treated with the respect and protection they deserve.
Request Help
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse, we are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn more about your rights.
For more information about this case or to speak with an attorney at Andreozzi + Foote, please contact us at 1-(866) 311-8640
At Andreozzi + Foote, we are fighting for justice and advocating for the rights of sexual abuse survivors. Together, we can work towards a safer and more just world.
