News Summary
Robin C. Hatley, a 61-year-old from Laurens, has been arrested for allegedly abusing a vulnerable adult at a memory care facility. The abuse, which involved physical violence against a resident, has led to felony charges. The facility reported the incident to law enforcement, prompting an investigation by the Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud unit. If convicted, Hatley could face severe penalties including prison time and fines.
Laurens Woman Arrested for Allegedly Abusing Vulnerable Adult at Memory Care Facility
Laurens, South Carolina – Robin C. Hatley, a 61-year-old resident of Laurens, has been arrested following allegations of abuse against a vulnerable adult at a memory care facility. The South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest, which was made on July 18, 2025, and comes after an investigation into the incident that occurred on June 14, 2025.
Hatley is facing charges of Abuse of a Vulnerable Adult, a felony under South Carolina law. The allegations state that she physically struck a resident multiple times on the head, face, and nose, leaving the victim, categorized as a vulnerable adult, in a compromised position. At the time of the incident, the victim was living at the Pearl at Five Forks Memory Care Center in Simpsonville, South Carolina.
The Pearl at Five Forks Memory Care Center took prompt action by reporting the incident to local law enforcement. The facility has reportedly cooperated fully with investigators during the probe into the alleged abuse.
Investigation Details
The investigation was led by the Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud (VAMPF) unit alongside the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. The collaborative effort between the facility and law enforcement has helped to ensure that the allegations were thoroughly examined.
Legal Consequences of the Allegations
If convicted of the charges, Hatley could face serious legal repercussions. The maximum penalties for Abuse of a Vulnerable Adult in South Carolina include up to five years in prison, a fine up to $5,000, or both. The case against Hatley will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office, which is responsible for addressing such cases within the state.
Understanding Vulnerable Adult Abuse
The Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud (VAMPF) unit plays a critical role in protecting individuals in assisted living facilities and nursing homes from abuse and neglect. This unit has the authority to investigate and take action against abuses in care settings, ensuring the safety of residents who may be unable to defend themselves.
In South Carolina, an individual is classified as a vulnerable adult based on their physical or mental condition that limits their ability to care for themselves or protect their own interests. The allegations against Hatley highlight the importance of vigilance in care facilities, where the safety and well-being of residents are of utmost concern.
The Role of Care Facilities
Memory care facilities, like Pearl at Five Forks, are designed to support individuals with cognitive impairments, providing assistance and monitoring to help them navigate their daily lives. Incidents of abuse not only affect the individuals involved but also impact the larger community and trust in such facilities.
The ongoing investigation into Hatley’s actions raises awareness about the need for training and resources for caregivers to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. It reinforces the critical nature of accountability in the care of vulnerable populations.
This case underscores the potential repercussions faced by those entrusted with the care of vulnerable individuals and the legal frameworks in place to protect these populations. The Attorney General’s Office and VAMPF unit are committed to prosecuting such cases to ensure justice is served and to promote a safer environment for all residents in care facilities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Caregiver Arrested for Abuse of Vulnerable Adult
Former Church Volunteer Pleads Guilty to Sexual Assault
Additional Resources
- GoLaurens: Robin Hatley Arrested
- WLTX: Caregiver Charged
- WISTV: Mental Health Technician Charged
- The State: Local Crime News
- WYFF: Simpsonville Caregiver Charged
- Wikipedia: Vulnerable Adult
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elder Abuse
- Google Search: Abuse of a Vulnerable Adult South Carolina
- Google News: Caregiver Abuse South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Vulnerable Adult Abuse
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
