NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I. - George Bower, 37, previously of Johnston, is facing serious charges after an incident involving the assault of a nurse at Rhode Island Hospital. This marks the second attack he has been involved in at a medical facility within a year, as reported by Target 12.
On September 8, Bower allegedly became enraged when informed that he couldn't use a phone at the hospital. In response, he violently assaulted nurse Scott Amaral, an incident captured by hospital surveillance.
Amaral remains hospitalized since the attack, and his condition has not been disclosed due to patient confidentiality.
Records obtained by Target 12 reveal a prior incident on November 1, 2022, at Fatima Hospital, North Providence, where Bower, described as a "long-term psychiatric patient," struck another patient. Initially, due to Bower's mental state, charging him was considered. However, after reviewing video footage, he was charged with one misdemeanor count of simple assault.
Following his arrest, Bower was transported to Roger Williams Hospital due to an "altered mental status."
The victim of the Fatima incident is considering legal action against the hospital.
Lifespan President and CEO John Fernandez expressed sorrow over the situation, emphasizing the unfortunate frequency of attacks on healthcare workers. He acknowledged the challenges hospitals face, including staffing shortages and extended patient stays.
Joseph Wendelken, a spokesperson for the R.I. Dept. of Health, stated that the state does not track incidents of violence in hospitals, differentiating between staff aggression against patients and patient aggression against staff.
Details about the Fatima incident's communication with Rhode Island Hospital staff remain unclear, citing patient confidentiality laws.
The charge of assault on a healthcare worker carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison, while felony assault could lead to up to 20 years behind bars.
Bower's next status conference is scheduled for November, following his competency evaluation.
His public defender has not provided a comment.
The United Nurses and Allied Professionals union declined to comment on the incidents.