COPS PROBE €50K ‘TAKEN FROM CARE HOME’
Staff member may have targeted bank accounts
It’s believed the cash was taken from residents at the St Joseph’s Intellectual Disability Service at St Ita’s Hospital in Portrane, Dublin.
A source said: “The alleged victims are all people with intellectual disabilities. They place huge trust in the staff.”
An employee, who is at the centre of the investigation, is said to be a trusted AN inquiry is under way into how €50,000 allegedly disappeared from the accounts of vulnerable patients at a residential care centre.
staff member who would have helped residents to withdraw cash from ATMS.
It’s understood the person has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of the joint investigation with the HSE.
The cash is thought to have been removed from up to six bank accounts over 18 months. The source added: “If this turns out to be the case that the money was taken, this will be a huge breach of that trust. Staff are horrifed about this.”
Workers have spoken to the alleged victims, who range in age from 40 to 60, about the “missing money”.
It’s understood the incident came to light after bank accounts and statements were examined. Gardai were called in by the HSE and the inquiry was launched.
A statement read: “The HSE has confirmed it has discovered what may be irregularities in service user accounts in one of their Community Group Homes.
“I can confirm the service is a community home of the HSE North Dublin area. Staff have spoken with the relevant service users and their families to advise them of suspected irregularities.
“The HSE deeply regrets any upset which this alleged incident might cause but has reassured the service users and their families that if any discrepancies are discovered in any of their personal accounts, they will be fully reimbursed.”