Healey fires head of Chelsea Soldiers’ Home

The embattled head of the Chelsea Soldiers’ Home has been fired after dealing with criticism over mismanagement, in accordance with Gov. Maura Healey’s workplace.

Superintendent Eric Johnson’s termination was efficient Thursday, The Boston Globe reported. Assistant Secretary of Veterans’ Homes and Housing Robert Engell has taken over the submit as appearing superintendent. 

The Chelsea Soldiers’ Home is a 200-bed state-run facility that gives shelter and medical care to navy veterans. Johnson got here beneath fireplace for his dealing with of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed the lives of greater than 30 veterans on the house. Critics mentioned the veterans’ deaths might have been prevented had Johnson accomplished a greater job managing the outbreak. In addition to the fatalities, at the least 40 different residents have been contaminated with the virus. 

“Governor Healey and her administration remain committed to protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of our veterans,” Healey spokesperson Karissa Hand mentioned following his firing, in accordance with the Globe. 

Johnson had been within the position of superintendent since December 2020. He was placed on paid go away in June 2022 after allegations of sexual harassment and bullying surfaced, however he returned to the job in October. 

Healey terminated Johnson a day after the Globe shed mild on extreme time beyond regulation funds made to the house’s nursing director. The firing additionally got here every week after Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro despatched a letter to now former Gov. Charlie Baker criticizing circumstances on the house.

In response to Johnson’s termination, Massachusetts Nurses Association spokesperson Joe Markman mentioned, “Eric Johnson’s firing is long overdue.”