Deputies: 19-year-old caretaker physically abused 88-year-old man

TAMPA, Fla. - Hillsborough County deputies have arrested a 19-year-old for allegedly abusing an 88-year-old man in his care.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Jonah Delgado was the on-duty caretaker for the victim, a man who required full-time care for basic needs. Investigators said home surveillance video showed Delgado physically abusing the victim by slapping the victim's face and yelling at him. 

According to HCSO, the video showed Delgado placing the victim in a wheelchair and hitting the victim multiple times in the face, head, and stomach. Investigators said the video also showed Delgado pushing the victim into a bed and punching him in the stomach three times.

Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office

With the assistance of the Pasco Sheriff's Office, Delgado was arrested on August 5 around midnight.

"The actions of this man are deplorable, unacceptable and disturbing," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Delgado was trusted to take care of this man and to protect him. He not only broke this trust but put this man in direct danger with his actions. I am very proud of our detectives who worked quickly to get this man in custody before he could hurt anyone else."

Delgado is charged with abuse of an elderly or disabled adult and battery.