A harrowing lawsuit has been filed against a Houston-based care facility, alleging severe neglect that led to the death of an elderly resident. On July 19, 2024, Sophronia Bourgeois lodged a complaint in Harris County's 234th Judicial District Court against Altamonte Care of Houston Southeast, LLC, doing business as Arden Place, and Altamonte Management and Advisory Group, LLC.
According to the filing, Joseph Williams was admitted to Arden Place on August 5, 2022. The plaintiff asserts that despite being aware of Williams' numerous health conditions—including hypertension, heart disease, and edema—the defendants failed to provide adequate care. Bourgeois claims that Arden Place assured her they had the necessary expertise and staffing to manage Williams' conditions but ultimately failed in their duty. "Plaintiffs relied on this representation in selecting Defendants as health care providers," states the complaint.
Williams' condition deteriorated rapidly during his stay at Arden Place. By August 13, 2022, he was experiencing significant pain and had developed severe skin breakdowns. Despite abnormal lab results indicating dehydration and other issues, it wasn't until August 16 that he was diagnosed with dehydration. Bourgeois alleges that by August 28, when she requested his transfer to a VA hospital due to his worsening condition, it was too late. Williams passed away shortly after on September 3 from complications including sepsis and wound infections.
The lawsuit accuses the defendants of multiple counts of negligence. It alleges they failed to monitor Williams adequately or provide necessary medical care and supervision. Additionally, the suit claims the facility was understaffed and lacked proper training for its employees. "Defendants further violated applicable Federal and State statutes... failing to ensure that each resident receives the kind and amount of supervision and care required," reads one part of the petition.
Bourgeois is seeking economic damages exceeding the court's minimal jurisdictional limits for funeral expenses and past medical costs. She also seeks non-economic damages for mental anguish and loss of companionship suffered by Williams' family members. Furthermore, punitive damages are being pursued due to what is described as gross negligence on the part of Arden Place.
Representing Bourgeois are attorneys Dawn M. Smith, Jessica Foster, and Feby Abraham from Smith Clinesmith LLP in Dallas. The case is being overseen by Judge Marilyn Burgess under Case ID: 2024-45547.