A former Prowers County caregiver has been charged with allegedly sexually assaulting a disabled resident at a group home in Lamar.
In a press release Friday, Attorney General Phil Weiser announced the filing of charges against Daniel Lira, who was previously employed as a caregiver in a group home operated by Southeastern Developmental Services.
Lira is accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a wheelchair-bound resident of the facility between January and November of 2018. The resident reportedly suffered from Cerebral Palsy.
“Medicaid exists to reimburse providers for medical services for the categorically needy Colorado citizens. Sexual abuse of individuals in facilities designed to care for patients who are unable to care for themselves is illegal and reprehensible,” Weiser said in the press release. “The Attorney General’s Office will investigate and prosecute these cases to ensure the safety of others, especially our most vulnerable citizens, and hold wrongdoers accountable.”
Lira has been charged with sexual assault of an at-risk adult, unlawful sexual contact of an at-risk adult and indecent exposure. Lira was arrested Friday by the Baca County Sheriff’s Office and the Springfield Police Department. He is currently being held without bond in the Baca County Jail and will be transported to Prowers County.
Bond will be set at his first appearance in Prowers County Court.
The Colorado Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case with the Prowers County Sheriff’s Office and Adult Protective Services.
The Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit also investigates and prosecutes abuse of patients and residents in hospitals, nursing homes and board and care facilities. To report suspected Medicaid fraud or abuse, contact the AG’s Office at mfcu.investigations@coag.gov or (720) 508-6696.
