Statement from OMRDD Commissioner Diana Jones Ritter Regarding the Verdict in the Edwin Tirado Trial

ALBANY, NY (10/11/2007)(readMedia)-- Now that the trial of Edwin Tirado has come to a close with a guilty verdict, we at OMRDD want to again extend our sympathies to Jonathan Carey’s family and friends, who continue to grieve, as we all do, over his tragic death. We are satisfied with the guilty verdict and relieved the case is over.

During the initial investigation and subsequent trial, OMRDD and the staff at the Capital District Developmental Disabilities Services Office (CDDDSO) cooperated fully with law enforcement. The trial testimony demonstrated that the involved staff had the necessary tools to correctly carry out their duties: they were properly trained, there were a sufficient number for the planned activity and they were provided with appropriate direction on what to do in the event of a problem.

Based on testimony, it appears that Edwin Tirado and Nadeem Mall failed to follow procedures, and made critical errors in judgment and action. Their shortcomings resulted in Jonathan Carey’s death.

Tirado and Mall’s behavior on that fateful day was not representative of our staff at the CDDDSO, and indeed throughout OMRDD. Our direct support professionals are dedicated and well-trained individuals who, day in and day out, care for people with developmental disabilities with professionalism and compassion -- we are proud to have them on board.

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