In a gripping legal battle, a Florida assisted living facility is facing serious allegations of abuse and neglect towards one of its elderly residents. Amy Johnson, acting as the Power of Attorney for her mother, Rosemary Bartow, filed a complaint on March 25, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County against Harbor Balmoral Management, LLC, doing business as HarborChase.
The lawsuit claims that Rosemary Bartow suffered significant abuse and neglect during her residency at HarborChase starting from March 11, 2023. The plaintiff accuses the defendant of failing to provide a safe environment, leading to injuries such as a broken hip and other unspecified harms. According to the complaint, these actions violate Chapter 415 of the Florida Statutes which aims to protect elderly individuals from abuse and exploitation. "Defendants’ actions and omissions resulted in non-accidental infliction of physical or psychological injury," states the complaint.
Amy Johnson asserts that HarborChase had a statutory obligation under §429.28 Florida Statutes to ensure her mother's rights were protected. These rights include living in a safe environment free from abuse and neglect, being treated with dignity and respect, and having access to adequate healthcare. The complaint alleges that these responsibilities are non-delegable and were grossly neglected by HarborChase. It further claims that due to these violations, Rosemary Bartow endured pain and suffering along with mental anguish.
The plaintiff seeks damages exceeding $50,000 for the deprivation of Rosemary Bartow's rights under both survival claims pursuant to §46.021 Florida Statutes and non-death claims for damages under §429.29 Florida Statutes. Additionally, they are pursuing relief for violations under Chapter 415 regarding elder abuse laws in Florida.
Representing Amy Johnson is attorney R. Evan Bassett alongside Teresa P. Williams from their respective law firms based in St. Petersburg, FL. The case has been assigned Case Number: 25-001450-CI within Pinellas County's judicial system.