A Central Florida woman who worked for an organization dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities was arrested for abusing a disabled adult.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Day Program Supervisor at the Sunrise Community Facility, a nonprofit organization, for abusing a disabled adult.
Earlier this month, HCSO responded to a call for service following reports of abuse.
During their investigation, detectives learned that a staff member had witnessed Mercado becoming angry at a victim with cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities for moving too slowly.
The witness reported seeing Mercado push the victim into a doorway and repeatedly kick him.
This month, HCSO arrested 43-year-old Angela Mercado, without incident. Mercado has been charged with Abuse of Elderly or Disabled Adult.
“It is sickening that someone in a position of trust, meant to help others, would use such violence against a vulnerable person,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “There is no place for abuse in our community. Our detectives will continue to work to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, is protected.”
Mercado has been placed on unpaid administrative leave. She will remain on leave until Sunrise Community Facility completes their investigation.
This is an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.
