Former York County detention officer charged with abusing vulnerable adult

YORK COUNTY, S.C. — The York County Sheriff’s Office said a former detention officer turned herself in on a charge of abuse of a vulnerable adult.

Officials said warrants were obtained for Patricia Elizabeth Brookhart, 67, on Wednesday.

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The Sheriff’s Office said it started investigating allegations raised by the Department of Social Services in October 2018 that Brookhart’s brother was being abused.

Officials said the accusations reported by DSS were after a request for a well-being check on Brookhart’s brother. The agency reported he was hit with a belt, and the home he was living in was filled with clutter. Brookhart is her brother’s primary caregiver.

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Brookhart was placed on suspension after being interviewed by detectives. The State Law Enforcement Division was also notified to take charge of the investigation.

"These allegations are disheartening and disturbing and certainly do not reflect the character and integrity required of and displayed by the many faithful employees of the York County Sheriff's Office," Sheriff Kevin Tolson said in a statement.

Brookhart resigned from the Sheriff’s Office on Oct. 8, 2018.

The case is still under investigation by SLED.

Cox Media Group