Complaint Investigation Report

Interviews confirmed that at the time the complaint was received, 11/2/2022 the facility had purchased (1) new van model year 2022. It was confirmed through interviews and documentation that the other (2) vans were 2018 and 2013 model years. LPA was provided with maintenance records for these vehicles and found that the facility was doing regular maintenance. Additionally LPA was given copies of staff accountability sheets where it was shown that the vehicle is checked by staff before and after a trip. It was alleged that the third facility van had an "unsafe" seat belt that would “choke” clients that was attached to the ceiling of the 2013 van. On 11/2/2022 LPA conducted a visit to the facility and was informed by administrator that this third van was currently in maintenance. LPA returned to the facility today 7/18/2023 and was informed by Administrator that the facility no longer has the 2018 and 2013 vehicles. LPA interviewed (5) staff and (4) clients regarding the safety of the facility vehicles. LPA found that (3) of the (5) staff stated they had no concerns about the safety of the vehicles. LPA found (4) out of (4) clients also stated they felt safe in facility vans and had no issues with the seat belts. Therefore, the allegation that the facility vehicles are unsafe is found to be unsubstantiated.

Findings that are unsubstantiated mean that although the allegation may be valid, the preponderance of the evidence standard has not been met. An exit interview was conducted where this report was reviewed and provided to administrator, Ana Guttierez.