LINCOLN, Neb.—Six patients of the Beatrice State Developmental Center have died so far this year, outpacing past years’ death rates despite a smaller population.
The state confirms six patients died in the first two months of 2009—although two died after being transferred to hospitals under a state order.
Last year, seven of the center’s patients died. In 2007, there were 13 deaths, but the center had twice the number of patients as it does now.
Hundreds of cases of alleged abuse and neglect have been reported at the center over the last few years. It has repeatedly run afoul of federal standards, and is expected to lose about $29 million in annual, federal funding.
The center is home to about 190 people with a range of mental disabilities.
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Information from: Lincoln Journal Star,
