The tragic death of a resident at an assisted living facility has sparked a legal battle that raises serious questions about the care provided to vulnerable individuals. The Estate of Catherine Del Brocco, represented by Lynette Baio, filed a complaint on November 15, 2024, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against Extended Care Portfolio Florida, LLC and Pacifica Senior Living, LLC. The lawsuit alleges negligence and wrongful death resulting from inadequate care at the defendants’ facility.

According to the complaint, Catherine Del Brocco was admitted to an assisted living facility operated by Extended Care Portfolio Florida and managed by Pacifica Senior Living. During her stay, she suffered multiple preventable injuries including a subdural hematoma, fractured humerus, urinary tract infection (UTI), and multiple lacerations. These injuries ultimately led to her death on March 26, 2024. The plaintiff claims that both companies failed to provide adequate care and supervision required for Del Brocco’s medical conditions and cognitive changes.

The lawsuit outlines numerous failures by the defendants including “failing to prevent physical injury and abuse,” “failing to properly assess skin breakdown,” “failing to provide appropriate hygiene,” and “failing to follow physician’s orders.” The complaint further accuses the defendants of neglecting their duty to ensure reasonable operation of the facility as per Chapter 429 of Florida Statutes which governs assisted living facilities.