A northern B.C. woman alleges her bedridden mother, suffering from late-stage Huntington's disease, was sexually assaulted at Peace Villa Care Home in Fort St. John on February 13th. The facility is operated by Northern Health.
The daughter, identified as "Amber," reported that staff found another resident locked in her mother's room, where the assault allegedly occurred. Amber stated her mother's physical condition made it impossible for her to call for help or defend herself.
Amber noted her mother has been visibly distressed since the incident. The BC RCMP confirmed an active investigation is ongoing, with no charges yet filed. Northern Health stated they are supporting the resident and family, taking the incident seriously, and are cooperating with the police. They also confirmed recent changes implementing dedicated units for male and female residents.
Health Minister Josie Osborne indicated she is working with Northern Health, emphasizing the need to learn from such situations to ensure resident safety standards are met in all long-term care facilities. Amber is speaking out seeking accountability for her mother.