A Nassau County jury has awarded $5 million to the family of Henry Serrapica in a nursing home neglect case, a verdict delivered after a seven-day trial in Nassau County Supreme Court before Judge Christopher McGrath. The award consists of $4 million in compensatory damages and $1 million in punitive damages, signaling a strong message about accountability for the care of vulnerable residents. Serrapica was a 67-year-old U.S. veteran and retired postal worker.
The case was prosecuted by Parker Waichman LLP, a nationally recognized personal injury firm known for its work in nursing home abuse and wrongful death litigation. Ryan McAllister, a seasoned trial attorney with national recognition in elder-care cases, led the trial. McAllister emphasized that the verdict serves as a warning to facilities: neglect and violations of residents’ rights will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law. “This verdict sends a powerful message that our most vulnerable citizens, our elderly, deserve dignity, care, and respect,” he said. “Mr. Serrapica was a husband, a father, and a veteran. What happened to him was inexcusable. This case wasn’t about one mistake; it was about a pattern of neglect and repeated violations of New York’s Public Health Law.”
Parker Waichman has long positioned itself at the forefront of nursing home abuse litigation. The firm’s practice includes cases involving bedsores, falls, malnutrition, dehydration, and other forms of mistreatment. The nursing home abuse team in Port Washington emphasizes thorough investigations, collaboration with medical experts, and building strong cases designed to hold negligent facilities accountable while securing justice for victims and their families.
Beyond personal injury and nursing home cases, Parker Waichman also represents clients in medical malpractice matters. The firm highlights a commitment to holding doctors and healthcare providers accountable for medical errors that cause injury or death, offering victims and families tailored, compassionate legal support throughout the process.
As America’s aging population grows, nursing home abuse remains a pressing concern. The firm urges families to be vigilant for warning signs, including sudden weight loss, repeated infections, poor hygiene, unexplained injuries, changes in mental status, reluctance to speak in front of staff, or unexpected deaths. Early legal intervention can help stop ongoing abuse and prevent harm to other residents, according to the firm’s attorneys.
In addition to pursuing individual cases, Parker Waichman works to drive systemic change by highlighting patterns of neglect and violations of public health law. The firm aims to use its legal victories to raise awareness, advocate for stronger enforcement of elder care regulations, and ensure justice for residents who may no longer be able to advocate for themselves.
About Parker Waichman LLP – Personal Injury Accident Attorneys
The firm provides compassionate and knowledgeable legal guidance to victims pursuing recovery and accountability for injuries and injustices. Their team explains legal steps, negotiates with insurers, and provides regular updates to clients in New York City and across Nassau County, NY.
Media contact
Parker Waichman LLP – Personal Injury Accident Attorneys
Phone: 516-466-6500
Address: 6 Harbor Park Dr, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA
If you’re a family member or caregiver, watch for warning signs of elder abuse and seek prompt legal and medical guidance if neglect or mistreatment is suspected. Early intervention can help protect other residents and ensure accountability for those responsible. The Serrapica verdict underscores that elderly veterans and other vulnerable residents deserve dignity, safety, and strong legal protections.