Binghamton counselor arrested for Endangering Person with Special Needs

Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs Special Prosecutor Patricia E. Gunning announced last week that a Binghamton man employed by HCA of Southern New York, Inc. has been arrested and charged with endangering a person with special needs in his care.

Michael M. Scott, age 29 of Binghamton, is charged with Endangering the Welfare of an Incompetent Person in the First Degree, a class “E” felony.

The charges stem from a February incident in which the defendant allegedly pushed the victim to the ground, and kicked the victim several times. The victim has autism and an intellectual disability. The incident occurred at HCA’s Kirkwood facility. The program is certified by the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). 

“Professionals employed by HCA are trained to calmly resolve difficult situations that can occur in its facilities,” said Special Prosecutor Gunning. “Caregivers should never resort to violence as a means of dealing with the people they serve, as this defendant is alleged to have done.”

Scott, who has been placed on administrative leave, was arraigned before the Honorable Jeffrey Hawkes of Kirkwood Town Court and released on his own recognizance. Supervising Assistant Special Prosecutor Linda E. Gafford is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Justice Center investigators Bruce Hall and Sheila Stanbro. Gunning thanked the office of Broome County District Attorney Stephen K. Cornwell, Jr. for its support of the Justice Center’s prosecution.