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Karelys Enid Cruz-Velazquez, 25, was charged with open lewdness and disorderly conduct after police responded to Cedar Haven Nursing Home at 590 South Fifth Avenue on Oct. 31, 2024. The investigation revealed that Cruz-Velazquez filmed herself partially exposing her breasts while dancing in front of residents Dorothy Foster, Naomi Clemens, and Amelia Reed, according to the affidavit of probable cause.
Cruz-Velazquez reportedly sent the video to coworker Alaze Merkey, who informed nursing home administrators. Sgt. David Troxell reviewed the video and confirmed its content matched the allegations.
During a phone interview with police on Nov. 1, Cruz-Velazquez admitted to recording the video on Oct. 5, saying, “I know it was wrong,” but claimed she was “just trying to cheer them up.” She also noted that she had a close relationship with the residents and that they sometimes “smack her butt,” the affidavit states.
Cruz-Velazquez, was terminated from her position at Cedar Haven. The nursing home administration requested prosecution on behalf of the elderly residents and the community.
She faces one misdemeanor count each of open lewdness and disorderly conduct. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled before Judge Anthony J. Verna for Thursday, Dec. 12, at 8 a.m.
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