Ex-Nurse Jailed for Neglect of Elderly Patient
A former nurse from Rugby has been sentenced after wilfully neglecting an elderly resident in her care. Catalina Ferchiu, 54, was found guilty at Warwick Crown Court last month of wilful neglect.
Neglect Led to Patient’s Suffering
Ferchiu was responsible for caring for 87-year-old Rachael Smith on the morning of 2 February 2018. During an early morning check, she found Mrs Smith had been sick and had a bruise on her shoulder. Instead of seeking urgent medical help, Ferchiu failed to follow up or monitor her properly through the night.
Mrs Smith was later hospitalised and died three weeks after the incident. The court was told Ferchiu’s neglect did not directly cause her death, but the failure to act was clear.
Sentencing & Reaction
Ferchiu received a 20-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. She must also complete 15 days of rehabilitation and 240 hours of unpaid work.
“Ferchiu displayed an abject failure to provide basic care for Mrs Smith. Nobody deserves to be treated this way, especially someone as vulnerable as Mrs Smith,” said Police Staff Investigator Marcella Forrest.
Family Demand Justice & Change
“As a family, we are pleased with the outcome and relieved to have finally received justice,” said Mrs Smith’s relatives. “We want this verdict to send a clear message to the care industry: wilful neglect of the elderly and vulnerable is unacceptable.”
“Our mother was left in pain and unable to ask for help. The senior nurse on duty that night failed her and her profession.”
“Thanks to all involved—from paramedics to the police—for their hard work in securing this conviction. Our mother’s death will now be investigated further by a Coroner’s Inquest.”
