Serenity Haven: Mouton denies wrongdoing
Frail care owner says allegations against him emanate from disgruntled former staff members.
Serenity Haven owner George Mouton insists that he is innocent of any wrongdoing regarding allegations of abuse of both patients and staff, and non-compliance with relevant legislation, despite the fact that the haven was officially closed by the Directorate Enforcing Older Peoples Rights and the Department of Social Development on Wednesday, May 21.
In numerous verbal and written responses to the Roodepoort Record, Mouton blames all his woes on the alleged theft of R2.1m by a former employee, and on other disgruntled staff members.
Also read: Serenity Haven: Allegations of abuse and labour disputes arise
He claims not to be aware of allegations made by the families of former patients that range from neglect and abuse to making unwanted sexual advances toward female family members.
“I have never served rotten food to anyone,” says Mouton. “We have been in a fortunate position in that we have received generous donations, even when things were hard financially.”
Mouton also insists that allegations of his acting violently toward staff and patients at times are untrue.
“I have never lifted a hand to anyone. That is a criminal offence.”
He does admit to locking away food and other items, citing theft by staff of food, toiletries, and other goods.
“I have had Serenity Haven Frail Care Centre for 13 years now, and there have never been problems or accusations.
“All this started when it came to light that my staff member, who worked here for seven years, had stolen R2.1m from me over the years.
“I was not aware that she had not paid the accounts, including the bond and the vehicles.
Also read: Frail care centre loses millions in alleged theft
“When the theft came to light, I let her go and laid criminal charges against the person with the police. Closer inspection of the bank accounts brought to light that there was no money left. I tried to make arrangements with my staff, but they were not interested.
“Registrations and the like were all handled by this employee, and I was kept under the impression that everything was up to date.”
Mouton adds that what further constrained the centre’s finances is that he would feel sorry for families that could not afford the full monthly rates for the care of their loved ones, and would sometimes accept a lesser arrangement.
