The Estate of George Rondeau has filed a negligence and wrongful death lawsuit against CPlace of St. Pete, LLC; Ark Post Acute Network, LLC; Roy Bush Bridges II; and Sydney Morrow. The complaint was filed by Wendy B. Pucci, the personal representative of George Rondeau's estate, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida on May 22, 2024.
According to the complaint, George Rondeau was admitted to Carrington Place of St. Pete on October 24, 2022, and remained there until his discharge on November 2, 2022. The plaintiff alleges that during his stay at the facility operated by CPlace of St. Pete, LLC, Rondeau suffered from inadequate care that led to significant physical and emotional distress. Wendy B. Pucci asserts that CPlace of St. Pete, LLC failed to provide proper supervision and adequate staffing levels necessary for maintaining professional standards of care.
The lawsuit details multiple breaches in duty by the defendants including failure to ensure a safe environment for Rondeau, failure to monitor changes in his condition adequately, and failure to provide appropriate healthcare services. "Defendants each failed to act reasonably in the provision of care for George Rondeau," states the complaint. Additionally, it is alleged that Ark Post Acute Network had control over various operational aspects such as staffing levels and budget management at Carrington Place of St. Pete.
The plaintiff also accuses Roy Bush Bridges II and Sydney Morrow—both administrators at different times—of failing to comply with federal and state laws governing nursing home operations. These failures allegedly contributed directly to Rondeau’s suffering which culminated in his death on November 10, 2022.
In terms of relief sought from the court, the plaintiff demands judgment for damages exceeding $50,000 for non-lethal negligence as well as lethal negligence claims leading up to wrongful death damages. Furthermore, the lawsuit includes claims for breach of fiduciary duty against CPlace of St. Pete LLC and aiding and abetting breach of fiduciary duty against Ark Post Acute Network LLC.
Additionally, Wendy B. Pucci seeks recovery for medical expenses incurred by George Rondeau's estate due to alleged negligent acts by the defendants along with compensation for pain and suffering endured by surviving family members including loss of companionship.
The legal team representing Wendy B. Pucci comprises Carl R. Wilander from Mendes Reins & Wilander PLLC based out of St Petersburg Florida while case proceedings will be overseen under Case Number: 24-002259-CI within jurisdiction presided over by Judge Ken Burke.