Carer admits man's neglect death

A 62-year-old woman has pleaded guilty to the neglect of an Alzheimer's disease sufferer who died at a Blackpool nursing home.

Kathleen Vitturini had been accused of the manslaughter of 57-year-old Peter Giles, who died in October 2004.

The original charge was withdrawn in light of new medical evidence and on Tuesday at Preston Crown Court she admitted wilful neglect.

Vitturini, of West Drive, Thornton Cleveleys, will be sentenced on 20 May.

Mr Giles suffered from both Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's and was initially cared for by his family.

In 2003, he was placed into the care of Vitturini, who was the manager of the Abbeycroft care home in Bispham.

Our thoughts are with Mr Giles' family and we will continue to support them in the future in any appropriate way Det Insp Des Coop

Mr Giles' condition deteriorated very quickly from September 2004 and he died a month later.

Lancashire Police launched an investigation into his death because of the speed of his deterioration.

However, the charge of manslaughter by gross negligence was withdrawn after new evidence emerged.

Det Insp Des Coop, who led the investigation, said: "The police investigation has been lengthy and detailed and every effort to achieve justice has been made.

"Our thoughts are with Mr Giles' family and we will continue to support them in the future in any appropriate way.

"We hope that today' s proceedings will enable them to take some comfort in dealing with the tragic loss of a much loved family member."