The family of 73-year-old Eva Lay has filed a lawsuit against Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, accusing the hospital of failing to protect her from sexual assault by a nurse during her stay in October 2024. Lay was being treated for heart-related symptoms when the alleged incident occurred, sparking outrage from her family and the community.
The lawsuit claims that a male nursing support technician, referred to as “John Doe” in the complaint, entered Lay’s room, closed the door, and sexually assaulted her. After the assault, the defendant reportedly used a washcloth to clean both himself and Lay, and then removed linens from the room to hide the evidence. The family believes the trauma from the alleged assault contributed to Lay’s mental distress, which ultimately led to her death just weeks later.
Alleged Failure of Security and Patient Protection
Attorneys representing Lay’s family argue that Grady Memorial Hospital failed to provide adequate security for its patients, especially vulnerable individuals like Lay. The lawsuit claims that the hospital did not have sufficient security measures, such as security cameras, to protect patients during interactions with male staff members. Lay’s family contends that this negligence allowed the male nurse to exploit the situation and commit the assault in the first place.
“We trusted Grady Memorial Hospital to care for our mother, and instead, she was violated in the worst possible way,” said Corey Harris, a family member. “The hospital’s negligence allowed this to happen when they had a legal and moral duty to protect her.”
The family is seeking compensatory damages and a trial by jury, demanding justice for the pain and suffering their loved one endured in what was supposed to be a place of healing and care.
Grady Memorial’s Response
In response to the lawsuit, Grady Memorial Hospital provided a statement to FOX 5, asserting that they took immediate action when the allegation was made. The hospital reported the incident to law enforcement, and the Atlanta Police Department (APD) conducted an investigation. However, according to Grady’s statement, no physical evidence was found to substantiate the claims.
“We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety in every aspect of patient care,” the statement read, deferring to law enforcement for any further information regarding the investigation.
Seeking Justice and Protection for Vulnerable Patients
As this case unfolds, it underscores the critical importance of hospital accountability in safeguarding patients, particularly those who are elderly or otherwise vulnerable. At Helping Survivors, we are dedicated to supporting individuals who have experienced abuse, whether in healthcare settings or elsewhere. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a similar situation, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial.
Contact Helping Survivors today for guidance and support in your journey toward justice.
