SHOCKING ATTACK in Winter Haven (33880) : Florida Group Home Director Accused of Assaulting 77-Year-Old Resident – POLICE INVESTIGATING

Winter Haven (33880) – In a deeply troubling incident, the director of a group home in Winter Haven, Florida has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a 77-year-old female resident for “talking excessively,” according to Winter Haven Police. The attack reportedly occurred inside the facility’s common area on Monday afternoon, with security footage backing up the disturbing claim.

Authorities say Ernest D. Thompson, 52, became agitated with the elderly resident and allegedly grabbed her by the neck, forced her into a chair, and slapped her face multiple times in full view of others. Witnesses say the victim had done nothing threatening. The woman suffered bruises and swelling but is expected to recover.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Group home director arrested for assaulting elderly woman in Winter Haven

• IMPACT: 77-year-old woman injured; suspect facing felony elder abuse charges

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “He attacked her over words. That’s abuse.” – Chief David Brannan

• ACTION: Call Winter Haven PD at (863) 401-2256 if you have info on prior incidents

The assault has raised serious concerns about elderly safety in private care homes, prompting state agencies to launch an immediate review of the facility’s license and operations. Thompson is now facing felony elder abuse charges, and additional staff members are being questioned.

“Elderly residents deserve care, not cruelty,” said Winter Haven Police Chief David Brannan. The group home has not released a statement as of press time.

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Winter Haven (33880) – near 6th Street SE & Ave H SE, close to Lake Martha Drive

2. Community Connection:
   “It breaks my heart. She’s like family to us.”
   – Martha Jenkins, nearby resident who volunteers at the facility

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  This is the second elder abuse allegation in Polk County within 3 weeks, sparking outrage and urgent demands for reform in adult group care regulation. Advocates say staff background checks and training are often overlooked in budget-strapped homes.

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » Florida Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873
  » Elder Advocacy of Polk County: (863) 555-ELDR
  » Trauma Counseling Center – Winter Haven: (863) 333-CARE

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:
  “If you suspect abuse in a care facility, report immediately. Don’t assume someone else will.”
  – Chief David Brannan, Winter Haven Police Department

Update Log

• 6:02 PM: Winter Haven PD confirms Thompson remains in custody without bond

• 4:55 PM: Facility placed under temporary state supervision during ongoing investigation

• 3:10 PM: Victim treated for injuries; released to family