In a shocking turn of events, authorities in Carson launched a significant investigation into elder abuse, unearthed by reports of unlicensed care facilities operating in the area. This operation led to the rescue of multiple elderly individuals who had been living in neglectful conditions and resulted in the arrest of a local couple involved in the operation.
The Investigation Unfolds
Residents in Carson were stunned to see law enforcement swarming their neighborhoods early Wednesday morning. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, collaborating with the L.A. County Fire Department and the California Department of Justice, executed search warrants at four different locations, beginning around 6 a.m.
Among the concerned neighbors was Tina De los Reyes, who lived next door to one of the homes. For years, she had observed several elderly patients residing at the property, often without adequate care. On this particular morning, she witnessed the rescue of one patient, sparking her concern for the vulnerable individuals in her community. “I’m just worried for them; they’re elderly like me,” De los Reyes expressed, recalling times she had seen someone fall in that area.
Rescues and Arrests
The investigation initially began on February 24 when deputies responded to complaints of neglect at one of the homes. That day, they rescued seven elderly individuals who were reportedly malnourished. On Wednesday, they managed to rescue three more, bringing the total to ten.
As deputies arrived at a residence on W. 234th Place, they found an elderly man sitting alone outdoors, illustrating the neglect these individuals faced. Lieutenant Quiana Penn from the LASD Carson Station highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are definitely continuing the investigation to see if we can rescue more.”
Arrested were 80-year-old Gary Hogg and 72-year-old Alicia Hogg, who now face serious charges of elder abuse and fraud. Business records revealed that Alicia was associated with a company named Abundant Care Home Inc. Additionally, both were reportedly involved with a nonprofit organization, Global Covenant Christian Churches.
“The care was simply non-existent from what we could see, and they were operating without any legal licenses,” Lieutenant Penn noted. The rescued individuals have been taken to suitable facilities where they can receive the care they need. Authorities remain vigilant, encouraging anyone with information about additional victims to reach out to the LASD Carson Station.
