mediacontact

	Christine Buttigieg Director of Strategic Communications Christine.Buttigieg@justicecenter.ny.gov 518.949.5621 October 30, 2023
Statement from Justice Center Executive Director Denise Miranda on Arrest of Staff Members Involved in the Death of Individual with Special Needs
“The Justice Center has been working in close partnership with the Gloversville Police Department and the Fulton County District Attorney’s office to ensure justice and accountability for the death of Patricia Nicholls. Her senseless loss is a reminder that New Yorkers with special needs remain particularly vulnerable to abuse and neglect. The Justice Center was created to protect people like Patricia, and it is our duty to make sure any staff member who commits these dangerous acts is held accountable. New York is home to the strongest protections in the country for individuals with special needs and has zero tolerance for abuse and neglect. For these challenging cases, the Justice Center offers its expertise in support of local law enforcement investigations. I thank the Gloversville Police Department and the Fulton County District Attorney for partnering to protect individuals with special needs."

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The Justice Center operates a toll-free hotline for people to report allegations of abuse or neglect, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anyone who witnesses or suspects an act of abuse or neglect can make a report by calling 855-373-2122.

The Justice Center has authority to investigate all reports of abuse and neglect in covered facilities and programs, pursue administrative sanctions against staff found responsible for misconduct, and its Special Prosecutor/Inspector General works with local District Attorneys to prosecute criminal offenses.

Statement from Justice Center Executive Director Denise Miranda on Arrest of Staff Members Involved in the Death of Individual with Special Needs