Autism Center Sued for Alleged Abuse After Whistleblower Video Surfaces

Abuse Allegations at Autism Center

• 💔 A family in Dutchess County is suing the Anderson Center for Autism over the alleged abuse of their 19-year-old son.
• 📹 The abuse came to light after a whistleblower contacted the family with video evidence.

Disturbing Video Evidence

• ⚠️ The video shows a former worker, Garnett Collins, grabbing the 19-year-old victim by the genitals and pushing him down a hallway.
• ⚖️ Garnett Collins has been sentenced to 1 to 3 years in prison for the abuse.

Impact on the Victim

• 😥 The parents report that their son has developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the abuse.
• 🧠 He experienced catatonia and lost his sense of security, believing the abuse was a normal part of his care.

Anderson Center's Response

• 🏢 The Anderson Center for Autism stated they have zero tolerance for behavior compromising safety or dignity.
• 🤝 They claim to have fully cooperated with the investigation and the conviction of the former staff member.