Arrest Made in Centennial Nursing Home Elder Abuse Case – Second Suspect in Custody

Arrest Made in Centennial Nursing Home Elder Abuse Case – Second Suspect in Custody

CENTENNIAL, CO — Authorities have confirmed that a second suspect, 34-year-old Zainab Namale, surrendered herself to authorities, following the arrest of Patience Jackson, 33, in a disturbing elder abuse case at the Orchard Park Health Care Center in Centennial. Both are now facing serious charges related to the injury of a 92-year-old woman suffering from dementia.

Timeline of Events

• On May 9, a hospital investigator from Sky Ridge Medical Center in Lone Tree flagged an unusual injury pattern: the elderly patient exhibited unexplained fractures in her lower leg (a tibia-fibula break), inconsistent with the nursing home’s official report  .
• The nursing home had initially reported the woman was “found in her wheelchair, screaming for help” with no witnessed fall—raising immediate suspicion  .

Arrests and Charges

• June 11: Patience Jackson, a certified nursing assistant, was taken into custody at her home. She’s facing felony charges of criminal negligence, offenses against an at-risk person, and complicity  .
• June 12: Zainab Namale, a licensed practical nurse who reportedly provided misleading information to investigators, turned herself in at the Arapahoe County Detention Facility  .
• Both suspects are accused of inaccurately describing how the elderly resident sustained her leg fractures on May 8, obstructing justice and potentially worsening the victim’s injuries  .
• Jackson was released on $2,500 bond, while Namale remains in custody following her surrender  .

Investigation Findings

A thorough four-week investigation by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office revealed that both women gave false accounts and attempted to conceal the true cause of the injuries. Their conflicting reports led investigators to conclude the fractures occurred under suspicious circumstances at the facility  .

John Mishler, ACSO’s Crisis Intervention Unit supervisor, stressed the severity of elder abuse:

“Please contact local law enforcement or Adult Protective Services. Your prompt response can make a difference in ensuring vulnerable citizens’ safety.” 

Orchard Park Health Care Center

Orchard Park, a CMS 5‑star accredited skilled nursing facility, has showcased a strong reputation in Centennial. Nevertheless, even the most reputable institutions must be held to the highest standards of care. The facility’s licensed and certified staff allegedly failed to follow protocols and report accurate incident information  .

Community & Family Impact

The scandal has shocked residents and shocked families who entrust their loved ones to care institutions. The two caregivers’ actions—even more so their attempts at deception—deeply undermine public trust in eldercare.

Looking Ahead

The investigation remains ongoing. Arapahoe County authorities continue to gather evidence and assess whether further charges are warranted. Both suspects are scheduled for court appearances in the coming weeks.

Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any elder abuse:

• Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office: (303) 795‑4711
• Adult Protective Services: 1‑844‑CO‑SAFE1 (1‑844‑267‑2331)

Protecting Seniors: What You Can Do

• Visit your loved ones frequently and inspect for unexplained injuries
• Ensure transparent and honest communication from care staff
• Report suspicions immediately to local authorities or APS

Even in high-quality facilities, elder abuse can occur. Thanks to whistleblowers and attentive health professionals, this victim may receive justice—and these employees’ actions are being held to account.