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Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has come under fire for his alleged role in manipulating a state report that downplayed the COVID-19 death toll in nursing homes. This information, brought to light through emails, challenges Cuomo’s previous claims of having no involvement in the matter.
At the heart of this controversy is the discrepancy in the reported number of nursing home fatalities during the early stages of the pandemic. The emails suggest that Cuomo was directly involved in altering a state Health Department report, a move that contradicts his assertions during congressional hearings where he denied any involvement or memory of the report.
For families who lost loved ones due to COVID-19 in nursing homes, these revelations are both shocking and painful. Many, like Tracey Alvino of Voices for Seniors, feel betrayed, viewing these actions as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and shield the governor from accountability. Alvino’s father was among those who tragically passed away in a Long Island nursing home, and she, like many others, is calling for Cuomo to be held responsible for what she sees as a grave injustice.
“The Great Debacle”
The accusations extend beyond mere report alterations. They delve into the controversial directive from March 2020 that allowed COVID-positive seniors to return to nursing homes, a decision believed to have significantly contributed to the spread of the virus among the vulnerable elderly population. This directive, now referred to by Cuomo’s inner circle as “the great debacle,” has been a focal point of criticism, with potential links to thousands of excess deaths.
Cuomo’s spokesperson, Rich Azzopardi, defended the former governor by attributing the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes to asymptomatic staff members, aligning with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s directives at the time. However, this defense has done little to assuage the concerns of those demanding accountability.
These revelations have added another layer to Cuomo’s already tarnished legacy, following his resignation amid sexual misconduct allegations in 2021. While rumors circulate about his potential political comeback, the outcry from affected families and advocates remains strong.
Have You Lost a Loved One Due to Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect? Speak With a Lawyer For Help
If you suspect that your family member’s death was preventable and resulted from inadequate care or intentional harm on the part of the nursing home, the experienced nursing home abuse lawyers at Dalli & Marino can help you seek justice. Our team is here to listen, investigate, and take the necessary steps to hold those responsible accountable. We understand the emotional and legal complexities involved in these cases and are committed to providing compassionate and professional support.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case with a qualified nursing home negligence attorney.
