SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A Mira Mesa woman is facing felony charges after state investigators accused her of abusing elderly residents under her care at a residential facility she operated out of her home.
Maria Erolina Delgado, 62, pleaded not guilty this week in San Diego Superior Court to multiple counts of elder abuse. She was ordered not to work with non-related elderly people or dependent adults while her case is pending.
According to the California Attorney General’s Office, Delgado ran a facility called J and M Happy Guest Home on Ambassador Avenue. Court documents allege that in 2020, she left the facility “severely understaffed,” causing residents to suffer from dehydration, malnutrition and bed sores. Investigators also said some residents were left in soiled diapers for days at a time.
“She’s always been very friendly,” said neighbor Michael Laud, who told reporters he was shocked by the allegations. “I never really noticed anything. The people I’ve known there are very nice.”
One of the victims named in the criminal complaint is Marcia Braun, who suffers from dementia. Her son, Andrew Braun, said he noticed the facility appeared understaffed and believes it may have contributed to his mother falling and suffering a black eye.
“It’s very upsetting,” Braun said. “They fill up the rooms with people and only have one nurse there — kind of like a money grab.”
Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement that caregivers must be held to the highest standards.
“We will take action anytime those entrusted with the care of elderly residents fail to live up to these standards,” he said.
Delgado posted bail which is set at $100,000. She is due back in court Nov. 12.
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