Florida Patient Attacks Indian-Origin Nurse, Leaves Her with Severe Facial Injuries !

*Nurse Brutally Assaulted by Psychiatric Patient in Florida*

A disturbing incident has shaken the healthcare community in Florida, where a 67-year-old Indian-origin nurse, Leelamma Lal, was brutally assaulted by a psychiatric patient at Palms West Hospital. The attack has sparked widespread outrage and concern about the safety of healthcare workers.

*The Attack*

According to authorities, 33-year-old Stephen Scantlebury, a psychiatric patient who was being held involuntarily at the hospital under the Baker Act, attacked Nurse Lal without provocation. The assault was vicious, leaving Lal with severe facial fractures. Witnesses reported that Scantlebury made racist remarks during the attack, which has led to hate crime enhancements being added to the charges.

*The Charges*

Scantlebury has been arrested and charged with attempted second-degree murder with hate crime enhancements. The charges reflect the severity of the attack and the disturbing nature of the racist remarks made during the assault.

*The Baker Act*

Scantlebury was being held at the hospital under the Baker Act, a Florida law that allows for involuntary examination and hospitalization of individuals who are deemed to be a risk to themselves or others due to a mental health crisis. The fact that Scantlebury was able to attack Nurse Lal despite being under hospital care raises questions about the adequacy of security measures and the handling of psychiatric patients.

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*Support for Nurse Lal*

The attack on Nurse Lal has sparked an outpouring of support for the victim. Healthcare workers and community leaders have rallied around Lal, condemning the attack and calling for greater protection for healthcare professionals. The incident highlights the risks that healthcare workers face on a daily basis and the need for adequate security measures to ensure their safety.

*Conclusion*

The brutal assault on Nurse Leelamma Lal is a disturbing reminder of the risks that healthcare workers face. The incident highlights the need for greater support and protection for healthcare professionals, particularly in psychiatric settings. As the investigation into the attack continues, it is essential to ensure that adequate measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.