New details disclosed at a July 9 bond hearing paint a more violent picture of care at several unlicensed assisted‑living houses in Polk and Osceola counties, prosecutors said. The accused operators — Ronald Keith Pack, 60, and Marie Carenan, 56 — were arrested June 25 and denied bond.
What investigators say changed at the hearing
Prosecutors and a Polk County detective told the court that complaints about neglect at the homes — previously described as denial of food and restricted freedoms — now include allegations of physical violence.
- Tasing: A house manager allegedly told investigators that two residents were shocked with a taser.
- Pepper spray: Testimony at the hearing said Carenan pepper‑sprayed at least one resident.
- Physical assaults: Witnesses described hitting, pushing and other physical contact against elderly and disabled patients.
- Sexual abuse: Ronald Pack has been accused of sexual abuse, prosecutors say.
- Medical neglect: A former house manager testified a diabetic resident was denied medication and hospital access, ultimately requiring toe amputations.
Alleged scope and legal status
The Florida attorney general’s office says the pair allegedly ran a network of eight unlicensed assisted‑living facilities over a period of years. State officials charged Pack and Carenan with multiple felonies tied to elder and disabled adult abuse after an investigation.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Arrest date | June 25 |
| Defendants | Ronald Keith Pack (60); Marie Carenan (56) |
| Counties involved | Polk, Osceola |
| Alleged facilities | Eight unlicensed homes |
Voices from the hearing
"Did this happen on more than one occasion, where he had to have toes removed because of his unmanaged diabetes?"
The incomplete transcript published by local outlets shows prosecutors and witnesses pressing for details about repeated medical neglect and physical mistreatment.
State regulators and local law enforcement have long sought to curb operations of unlicensed care homes, which they say can leave vulnerable residents without required medical oversight and protections. The recent bond hearing introduced allegations that, if proven, would elevate concerns from neglect to violent abuse.
For relatives of residents and community members, the developments underscore the importance of verifying licensing and oversight for care providers. Florida requires assisted living facilities to be licensed and meet standards designed to protect residents’ health and safety.
The case remains under investigation. Prosecutors presented evidence at the bond hearing that led a judge to deny bond for both defendants. No convictions have been entered; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
News Block will continue to follow court proceedings and any formal statements from the Florida attorney general’s office, Polk County detectives and Osceola County officials as more information becomes available.
