Hidden Camera Captures Home Health Aides Abusing 29-Year-Old Man with Autism, Police Say

BUFFALO, NY — Two home health care workers have been arrested and charged after a hidden camera revealed shocking footage of them physically abusing a 29-year-old man with autism inside his family’s home, according to local authorities.

The incident, which unfolded in Erie County, has sparked outrage and renewed scrutiny over the safety and oversight of in-home care services for individuals with disabilities.

According to the Buffalo Police Department, the victim’s family had grown suspicious after noticing unexplained bruises and behavioral changes in their son, who is nonverbal. In response, they installed a concealed camera in the living room of their residence, where the man spent much of his time under the supervision of aides hired through a third-party agency.

What they discovered on the footage was disturbing: the video reportedly shows the two aides smacking, shoving, and verbally taunting the young man on multiple occasions. One clip shows the victim being slapped in the face while another captures one of the caregivers throwing a household item at him in frustration.

Arrests and Charges Filed

Police arrested the two suspects—identified as 38-year-old Tiffany Brooks and 42-year-old Kevin Lamont—on Friday evening. Both have been charged with felony counts of endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, as well as misdemeanor assault.

“This was an egregious breach of trust,” said Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia. “These individuals were entrusted with the care of a vulnerable adult, and instead, they inflicted harm and trauma.”

The victim has been removed from the care of the agency and is now receiving support under new supervision. His family is also pursuing civil action against the home care agency involved.

Agency Under Investigation

The company that employed the accused caregivers, which has not yet been publicly named due to the ongoing investigation, is now under review by the New York State Department of Health. Officials are examining the agency’s hiring practices, background checks, and supervisory protocols.

Advocates for individuals with developmental disabilities say this case highlights a broader issue of under-regulation in the home health care industry.

“We need stricter vetting, more frequent in-person checks, and accountability measures,” said Rachel Cohen, director of the New York Disability Rights Council. “Too often, vulnerable individuals are left at the mercy of underpaid and undertrained caregivers.”