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A Poughkeepsie man, Garnet Collins, has pleaded guilty to charges of mistreating residents at the Anderson Center for Autism in Hyde Park. Collins, age 50, admitted to endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, a charge that carries a potential sentence of up to three years in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced in April.
The charges stem from incidents involving two residents at the center. In one case, Collins was accused of grabbing a resident by the genitals, and in another, he allegedly hit a resident on the head with an object. The New York State Police arrested Collins on August 11, 2024, after a whistleblower recorded video evidence of the abuse.
The Anderson Center, a well-known institution for individuals with autism, is facing renewed scrutiny following these allegations. The facility, which has been in operation for over 100 years, has previously been praised for its work but now faces questions about the care provided to its residents. Anil, the father of one of the victims, expressed his outrage, stating, "Every day. Every day. Every day. It kills me to think about the amount of abuse and torture he went through."
The whistleblower who recorded the video was reportedly fired by the Anderson Center, a move that has sparked further controversy. The whistleblower, who was on a work visa, risked his status to expose the abuse and has since been assisted by Anil in finding housing and maintaining his immigration status.
Collins' plea deal may result in a sentence of no more than six months in jail, followed by five years of probation, according to the Dutchess County District Attorney's office. Anil and his family are calling for more accountability and systemic changes at the Anderson Center to prevent future incidents. They are also seeking upgraded charges against Collins and an investigation into the center's leadership.
The Anderson Center has stated that it is cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation and has expressed that the allegations are contrary to its values. The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about the treatment of individuals with disabilities in care facilities across New York.