In response to the Department of Human Services’ decision to revoke Bellwether Behavioral Health’s license to operate group homes in New Jersey after an investigation into allegations of abuse and neglect, Assemblywoman Joann Downey (D-Monmouth) released the following statement:
“It’s become clear that Bellwether group homes did not come anywhere close to delivering the standard of compassionate care we demand for the disabled community in New Jersey. Too many patients in their care, most of whom have developmental and intellectual disabilities, allegedly endured inhumane treatment and faced abuse and neglect.
“I strongly support the Department of Human Services’ choice to shutter Bellwether’s operations for good. As chair of the Assembly Human Services Committee, I will continue to fight to ensure people with disabilities receive the respect they deserve and this never happens again.”