Plainfield, CT — In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the local community, the Plainfield Police Department has arrested 59-year-old Lisa Neal on a slew of charges stemming from what authorities describe as prolonged and deliberate abuse of an autistic individual under her care.
According to officials, Neal, a long-term caretaker for the unnamed victim, allegedly subjected the individual to a pattern of cruelty, neglect, and financial exploitation over several years. The most recent and alarming incident occurred when Neal reportedly denied the victim access to a bathroom. Police say that when the individual, who has autism, was forced to urinate in a trash can due to being refused proper restroom access, Neal responded by pouring the urine over the victim’s head. Even more shockingly, she is accused of then denying the victim the opportunity to change into clean clothes, forcing them to remain in soiled garments.
Investigators say this appalling act was just one of many in a pattern of abuse that may have spanned years. The victim, whose identity is being withheld to protect their privacy, was reportedly entirely dependent on Neal for daily care and support. Authorities believe that Neal systematically took advantage of this dependency to exert control over the individual, both physically and financially.
In addition to the physical abuse, police allege that Neal exploited the victim’s finances. Investigators uncovered that she compelled the victim to regularly withdraw a substantial portion of their monthly disability benefits. These funds were then allegedly funneled into Neal’s own accounts or used for her personal gain, an act that has prompted financial crime charges, including money laundering.
The arrest followed a comprehensive investigation by the Plainfield Police Department, which included interviews, review of financial records, and consultations with adult protective services and mental health professionals. Detectives described the case as one of the most egregious violations of trust they have encountered in recent memory.
Lisa Neal is currently facing multiple serious charges including:
- Intentional Cruelty to Person
- Assault 3rd Degree of a Person with Intellectual Disability
- Unlawful Restraint 2nd Degree
- Disorderly Conduct
- Money Laundering
- Exploitation of a Disabled Person (pending additional review)
Neal is being held pending a court appearance, and authorities have indicated that more charges could follow as the investigation continues. The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and Adult Protective Services have been notified and are now working closely with law enforcement to ensure the victim receives proper care and support.
“This case is both heartbreaking and infuriating,” said one Plainfield officer familiar with the investigation. “No one—especially a vulnerable individual depending on a caregiver—should be subjected to such inhumane treatment. We are committed to seeking justice for the victim.”
Plainfield Police are urging anyone who may have additional information related to this case or similar incidents involving Neal to come forward.
As the legal process unfolds, this case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of vigilance and oversight in caregiving roles, especially for those caring for individuals with disabilities. Abuse and neglect in these settings can often go unnoticed, making community awareness and prompt reporting vital tools in protecting the most vulnerable among us.
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