A special needs adult with cerbal palsy was left on a bus New Years Eve all night in New York City – with temperatures plummeting below 15 degrees.
According to his sister Edwin Rivera was found “cold, very cold” with “blue fingers.” Edwin Rivera is currently recovering in the hospital and is doing much better according to the CNN Article.
Linda Hockaday, 51 a driver’s assistant for Outstanding Transport, Inc was arraigned Friday on first and second degree reckless endangerment charges. According to a criminal complaint filed by the prosecutors Hockaday was aware Edwin Rivera was on the van, but refused to report it to the driver as she had an appointment and did not want to retrace the bus route. If convicted she may face up to 7 years.
I know this does not have anything to do with Autism, but I feel that similar things likely happen in the Autism community on a daily basis – and it should be discussed.
Question: Should persons who take care of special needs individuals face more severe punishments in cases like this?
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Reckless endangerment seems appropriate here, though I know little of the law to be sure. But based solely on description, that’s sounds like that’s what this is. endangerment or neglect. Seems to me the charge is appropriate. I don’t think exacting more severe punishments for abuse of the disabled will help. It would just increase the stigma. But we do need to make sure punishments aren’t more lenient because the victim is disabled.
That said I’m wondering why charges weren’t pressed against the driver. Aren’t they supposed to check their busses? I hope the driver was at least disciplined.