Titus calls on governor to investigate patient mistreatment reports at state veterans home

Rep. Dina Titus, a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, sent Gov. Brian Sandoval a letter Thursday urging him to launch an investigation into reports of patient mistreatment at the Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City.

“Recently very troubling accusations have been raised regarding the treatment of residents at the Veterans Home,” Titus, D-Nev., wrote. She referred to a Las Vegas Review-Journal story about a World War II veteran, Dr. Bob Robinson, who died last year from “health conditions resulting from irresponsible care provided at the Veterans Home.”

Titus noted that Robinson, a former Nevada state senator and assemblyman, received second-degree burns “on his legs after prolonged exposure to the elements. He ultimately died as a result of these burns.”

“While one of the most serious allegations raised against the facility, Dr. Robinson’s case is unfortunately not unique. In 2013, the Veterans Home received nine citations related to the treatment of patients,” according to Titus’ letter.

The governor’s office had no immediate comment on Titus’ letter.

In late December, Sandoval’s spokeswoman released a statement to the Review-Journal, saying the governor was “deeply concerned about this tragic loss of life.”

“While some disciplinary actions have already occurred, the governor is receiving regular updates and may take additional action,” Sandoval’s spokeswoman Mary-Sarah Kinner said on Dec. 30.

Titus also called on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to investigate the state veterans home.

Contact reporter Keith Rogers at krogers@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0308. Follow him on Twitter @KeithRogers2.