TAMPA, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Day Program Supervisor at the Sunrise Community Facility, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, for abusing a disabled adult.
On May 10, 2024, deputies responded to a call for service following reports of abuse at the facility.
During their investigation, detectives learned that a staff member had witnessed Mercado becoming angry at a victim with cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities for moving too slowly.
Read: Florida Couple Charged With Murdering Their 6-Month-Old Baby Girl
The witness reported seeing Mercado push the victim into a doorway and repeatedly kick him.
On May 17, 2024, HCSO arrested Angela Mercado, 43, without incident and charged with Abuse of Elderly or Disabled Adult.
“It is sickening that someone in a position of trust, meant to help others, would use such violence against a vulnerable person,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “There is no place for abuse in our community. Our detectives will continue to work to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, is protected.”
Mercado has been placed on unpaid administrative leave. She will remain on leave until Sunrise Community Facility completes its investigation.
Help support the Tampa Free Press by making any small donation by clicking here.
Android Users, Click To Download The Tampa Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Sign up for our free newsletter.