A shocking lawsuit has been filed against a prominent nursing home, alleging severe neglect and mistreatment of an elderly resident that led to her death. On September 18, 2024, Jamie Schnell, as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Ellen Sohtz, filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the 6th Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against Belleair East HCC, LLC, doing business as Belleair Health Care Center.
The complaint paints a harrowing picture of Ellen Sohtz's time at Belleair Health Care Center. Ellen Sohtz was an adult resident of Pinellas County who suffered from age-related infirmities that impaired her ability to care for herself. According to the filing, during her residency at Belleair Health Care Center, the staff failed to develop an adequate care plan and properly monitor and supervise her treatment. This alleged negligence resulted in Sohtz suffering from infections and severe malnutrition leading up to her death on April 25, 2024.
Schnell’s lawsuit claims that Belleair East HCC violated several provisions under Chapter 400 of Florida Statutes, which set standards for operating nursing homes. Specifically, it accuses the facility of failing to provide adequate healthcare and protective services to Sohtz. The complaint lists multiple instances where the nursing home allegedly neglected its duties: failing to prevent unexplained injuries and malnutrition; not developing appropriate care plans; inadequately monitoring Sohtz’s health condition; and failing to notify her family or physicians about significant changes in her health status.
Plaintiff Jamie Schnell argues that these failures directly contributed to Ellen Sohtz’s suffering and eventual death. The suit also highlights broader systemic issues within Belleair Health Care Center, such as improper training and supervision of staff, inadequate staffing levels, failure to follow physician orders, and not maintaining accurate medical records.
The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 for pain and suffering endured by Ellen Sohtz before her death. Additionally, it aims to recover lost support and services for Sohtz's surviving family members—Jamie Schnell (daughter), Brett Sohtz (son), Cheryl Cerisano (daughter), and Timothy Cerisano (son). The plaintiffs are also asking for compensation for funeral expenses and other related costs incurred due to the alleged negligence.
Representing Jamie Schnell is William A. Dean from Ford, Dean & Rotundo P.A., based in North Miami Beach. The case is presided over by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number 24-004211-CI.