FERGUS FALLS, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) – An Alexandria woman, Ashley Simons, 23, appeared in Otter Tail County District Court on Nov. 20, charged with fourth-degree assault of a vulnerable adult at a Fergus Falls group home.
According to court documents, a Fergus Falls police officer was alerted on Nov. 18 to an assault reported by a hospital. The victim, described as a low-functioning adult with limited communication abilities, displayed signs of abuse.
The victim’s care provider presented video evidence showing Simons striking the victim in the head on Nov. 17 during a meal. Additional footage reportedly shows Simons kicking away a footrest, improperly removing the victim from a recliner, and later pushing them back into it while yelling commands.
Other incidents captured include Simons physically restraining the victim, pushing them to the ground, and blocking access to a room by sliding furniture. The victim’s behavior reportedly changed following the incidents.
In an interview, Simons admitted to the actions, citing personal frustrations but stating such behavior had not occurred before. She is scheduled for her next court appearance on Dec. 31.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for trfnews.i234.me.