Report into death calls for better programs for people with disabilities

EDMONTON A report into the 2009 death of a mentally handicapped woman who was locked in a cage by her family says there were many missed opportunities to prevent her “tragic and unnecessary death.”

Betty Anne Gagnon, 48, had also been confined in a basement, a dog run and a converted school bus with no heat, running water or electricity at a rural home.

A medical examiner determined she died on Nov. 20, 2009, from a head injury that was caused by either a blow to the face or an accidental fall.

Gagnon’s younger sister, Denise Scriven, and brother-in-law, Michael Scriven, were sentenced to 20 months each in jail after pleading guilty to failing to provide the necessaries of life.

The fatality inquiry report from provincial court Judge Michele Collinson said Gagnon had developed behavioural issues that included plugging the toilet, wandering off and smearing feces.It noted that the Scrivens had trouble caring for Gagnon and struggled with drug abuse, paranoia and depression.

“The couple employed abusive, even torturous methods to deal with the behavioural issues.”

Collinson said in her report that the Scrivens asked for help, but they either didn’t follow up or weren’t persistent in their requests. It also suggested there were many chances for authorities to intervene.

Minister of Community and Social Services Irfan Sabir called Gagnon’s death heartbreaking.

Collinson’s report makes 13 recommendations including ensuring adequate funding for programs, immediately addressing crisis situations and reviewing supports for people with disabilities who live in rural areas.