UPDATE: A Massachusetts nurse has been arrested and charged with tampering with oxycodone intended for a dementia patient, according to an urgent announcement from federal authorities. Lori Robertson, 65, faces serious allegations after an incident that occurred on March 31, 2023, while she was working at a long-term care facility in Amesbury.
Robertson, a registered nurse licensed in Massachusetts, has been accused of replacing oxycodone with a household cleaner after extracting the medication from the bottle using a syringe. This shocking breach of trust has raised significant concerns about patient safety, particularly as the victim is a non-verbal hospice patient suffering from dementia.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office states that Robertson’s actions demonstrate “reckless disregard” for the wellbeing of her patients and could potentially lead to dire consequences for vulnerable individuals in her care. Under U.S. federal law, tampering with a consumer product can result in a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, along with a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release.
Robertson was arraigned on Friday before Judge Paul Levenson in federal court, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges. In a surprising turn, federal prosecutors did not request her detention and instead agreed to release conditions. These conditions include a prohibition on drug or alcohol use, no contact with the alleged victim, and a ban on any employment that would allow her access to prescription medications.
The indictment highlights the critical nature of this case, as it not only involves a healthcare professional but also underscores the vulnerabilities of patients in hospice care. The next steps in this unfolding case include an initial status conference scheduled for November 24, where further proceedings will be discussed.
This alarming incident has sparked outrage among caregivers and families of patients in similar situations, emphasizing the importance of vigilant oversight in healthcare settings. As this case develops, many will be watching closely to see how the court addresses these grave allegations against a nurse who was entrusted with the care of some of society’s most vulnerable individuals.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it continues to unfold.
