SIDNEY, Ohio — An in-home developmental disability caregiver, who was convicted in November on five counts of first-degree misdemeanor patient endangerment, received a suspended jail sentence and probation on Tuesday, December 23, in Sidney Municipal Court. 

John C. Brown, 53, of Wapakoneta, was convicted unanimously in a jury trial on November 21 on all charges against him. Brown was the in-home caregiver for a 19-year-old developmentally disabled and non-verbal Sidney man, diagnosed with X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). The offenses occurred in early July 2024 inside the victim’s Sidney residence. 

While under Brown’s care, the victim was left suspended in a lift chair several feet off the ground for several minutes out of immediate reach; was left on his stomach with his face in the mattress for over three minutes; had his arm forcibly moved and pinned by Brown’s knee; had his nose and mouth covered by a towel; and did not promptly have his mouth suctioned while getting his teeth brushed, all creating a substantial risk to the health and safety of the victim. 

Sidney Municipal Court Presiding Judge Gary Carter handed down a 180-day jail sentence — 36 days per count — all of which were suspended. Brown was also given a $250 fine, one year of supervised probation, and he must complete a mental health evaluation. He was also ordered to write a letter of apology to the victim and the victim’s family. Each charge carried a potential maximum penalty of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. 

When asked by Judge Carter if he wished to make a statement before sentencing, Brown declined. The victim’s family had requested that Brown have his nursing license permanently revoked, along with being required to attend anger management, counseling, and possibly receive jail time.