Trial begins in Beatrice Abuse Case
BEATRICE, Neb. (AP) - Prosecutors say the case against a former worker at a Nebraska center for developmentally disabled adults is about "fundamental rights" of the residents.
Matthew Pangborn is charged with six counts of abuse of a vulnerable adult and four counts of strangulation. He was charged after an investigation last year at the Beatrice State Development Center.
His trial began Monday in Gage County District Court. Prosecutors agreed to drop one count of strangulation prior to the trial.
In opening statements, County Attorney Roger Harris said residents were trusted to the care of the state, which in turn trusted them to care workers.
Defense attorney Brett McArthur says he'll try to discredit witnesses he says have something to gain by Pangborn's conviction.
Testimony, which began Monday afternoon, continues on Tuesday.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Sabetha couple killed in Brown Co crash
Holton schools mourn student death
Info sought on missing Sabetha teen
Missing Atchison couple draws renewed interest
Dean, assistant, secured for proposed BC med school
Fleeing, drugs, hold Atchison man
Atchison foundry renamed in acquisition
Tecumseh Prison inmates arrested for 2023 assaults
Jackson Heights names new MS/HS Principal
ATCH CO SO seeks tips regarding stolen motorcycle
Hiawatha City Commission approves fireworks on trial basis
Longtime Sabetha Fire Chief to retire
Flags to fly at half-staff in honor of fallen firefighters
Trump thankful for late Deputy's service, sends Brown Co letter
Spilled mower fuel blamed for Atchison fire
Richardson Co board conducts grievance hearing
Early morning power outage planned for Falls City
Auburn School Board approves administrator salaries
LATEST STORIES
Richardson County Board approves health insurance plan
Peru State College graduation set
Trump thankful for late Deputy's service, sends Brown Co letter
Motorcycle awareness urged; Atchison Police plan safety event
Spilled mower fuel blamed for Atchison fire
BC Professor earns top college honor
Doniphan Co rejects solar, wind energy regulations