News Summary
A 63-year-old former caregiver, Doris Williams Nash, was arrested for abusing a vulnerable adult at the Midlands Regional Center in Columbia. Allegations include physical abuse and aggression, prompting a thorough investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The community is outraged and seeking answers about the safety of individuals in care facilities.
Shocking Abuse Case Rocks Columbia: Caregiver Arrested
In a disturbing incident that has left the community reeling, a 63-year-old former caregiver, Doris Williams Nash, has been arrested for reportedly abusing a vulnerable adult in her care. This unfortunate event occurred while Nash was employed at the Midlands Regional Center, a facility dedicated to providing care for individuals with disabilities in Columbia.
The Timeline of Events
The arrest took place on March 6, 2025, when the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) acted on the serious allegations against Nash. She has since been booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center. Currently, she is not listed on the Richland County jail’s inmate roster, and details regarding her bond remain a mystery.
The abusive incidents were said to have happened on October 12, 2024, when Nash’s actions came into question while working as a direct support professional at the Midlands Regional Center located at 8301 Farrow Road. This particular center is operated by the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, an organization committed to caring for those who may be unable to defend themselves.
The Nature of the Abuse
According to the investigation, Nash’s behavior was not just reckless but alarmingly aggressive. In total, she reportedly inflicted physical abuse by hitting and flicking the victim’s body at least 38 times, along with slapping the victim multiple times and even kicking her once. Even more shocking, Nash allegedly shook the victim and sat on her “10 times”, all while supposedly dancing and laughing, using her body weight against the individual in her care.
The SLED embarked on a thorough investigation that involved interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and analyzing information that was brought forward regarding the allegations. While details of the victim’s physical condition or injuries have not been released, the community’s concern for the victim’s well-being remains palpable.
The Investigation’s Aftermath
The South Carolina Department of Disability and Special Needs was instrumental in initiating the investigation that led to Nash’s arrest, highlighting the importance they place on ensuring the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals in their care. Following the ongoing developments, it’s clear that this serious matter requires careful legal proceedings, and Nash will now be prosecuted by the 5th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
At this point, it’s uncertain if Nash was fired from her position at the Midlands Regional Center, or whether she resigned. However, the facility has undoubtedly come under scrutiny due to the serious nature of these allegations, raising questions about oversight and the safeguarding measures in place for vulnerable adults.
Community Reaction
This revealing case has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many residents expressing their outrage and disbelief over such behavior from a caregiver. Public sentiment is undoubtedly leaning towards a demand for answers—answers about how such abuse could occur within a facility that is meant to be a safe haven for individuals with disabilities.
As more information continues to emerge, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The report regarding these allegations was officially released by SLED on March 11, 2025, and the investigation remains a top priority for law enforcement and health officials alike.
In a world where the most vulnerable among us depend on caregivers for their safety and well-being, this case serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and accountability within our care systems.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington Man Charged with Stealing from Vulnerable Adult
Charleston Woman Arrested for Stealing Over $100,000 from Nursing Home Resident
Charleston Caregiver Accused of Stealing Over $100,000 from Nursing Home Resident
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Former Midlands Regional Center Employee Charged
- The State: Caregiver Arrested for Vulnerable Adult Abuse
- WISTV: Mental Health Technician Charged
- Columbia Valley Pioneer: End Adult Abuse and Neglect
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Caregiver Abuse
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, 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 Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. 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.
