A McCandless senior-living campus is under intense scrutiny after a Ridgecrest of McCandless employee was arrested, accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a coworker who needs daily assistance. The reported incidents include unwanted touching, exposure, and at least one incident, the woman described as rape, raising fresh concerns about how facilities protect vulnerable staff and residents.
According to court documents reviewed by CBS Pittsburgh, the suspect, identified as Diosdado Anvene Ele, faces multiple charges that include rape. The criminal complaint states that the victim, described in charging papers as a female employee with a mental disability who needs assistance at work, told investigators Ele touched her chest and genitals underneath her clothing, exposed himself, and raped her in separate encounters in a bathroom and in a dishwashing room. Police were called to Ridgecrest on Thursday after she reported what had happened.
State Law And Caretaker Protections
Under state law, a caretaker who engages in sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, or indecent contact with a care-dependent person can be charged with institutional sexual assault, a third-degree felony, and the statute specifies that consent is not a defense, according to the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. The law covers employees and agents at licensed facilities such as nursing homes, memory-care units, and personal-care residences where residents rely on staff for their basic needs.
Investigators Say There May Be Other Victims
Investigators told CBS Pittsburgh that the case remains active and that at least two other women have come forward. One reported repeated advances and attempted kisses, and another said unwanted sexual comments made her uncomfortable at work. Police said a forensic interview with the alleged victim led to charges against Ele, and authorities added that he denied the allegations.
Where To Report Suspected Abuse
Anyone who suspects abuse of an older adult or an adult with a disability can call Pennsylvania's statewide elder abuse helpline at 1-800-490-8505. The Department of Human Services' Adult Protective Services program handles reports and referrals through that line, according to Pennsylvania DHS, and people with immediate safety concerns are advised to call 911.
The investigation remains active, and filings and hearing dates should appear on the Allegheny County court dockets as the case proceeds, according to the county courts website. Authorities say they are continuing to interview witnesses and follow leads as the inquiry moves forward.
