A CARE home owner has pleaded not guilty today to a safety breach over the death of a resident found under a wardrobe.
The hearing was told Amber Valley Borough Council launched an investigation after Tomasina Bennett, 80, was found dead at Milford House Care Home, Derby Road, Milford, exactly two years ago today.
Magistrates decided the case against Gerald Hudson, 70, should be sent to Derby Crown Court.
Hudson, a partner in the business, denied a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act. The other business partner died before the case could be brought to court.
Mike Atkins, for Hudson, did not oppose the decision to send the case to the crown court. Hudson was given unconditional bail.
The case will be initially heard by a judge on August 6, when a trial date is likely to be set. The council is planning to call eight witnesses, including a health and safety expert.
Andrew Prestwich, for the council, outlined the details of the death of Mrs Bennett, who suffered from Alzeimer's disease.
She had gone into the home because she "needed a secure environment appropriate to her needs," magistrates in Derby were told.
She was found dead in her room under a wardrobe. She had been wearing a monitor to alert staff to any problems.
The magistrates were told that the maximum fine they could impose is £100,000, if someone is found guilty. A crown court judge has wider powers.
Mr Bennett's family attended the hearing of Southern Derbyshire magistrates, who were told that staff were not being prosecuted.
