Worcester rehab center employee accused of sexually assaulting patient

WORCESTER, Mass. — An employee at a Worcester drug and alcohol rehabilitation center is being accused of sexually assaulting one of the men living at the facility and seeking treatment.

On Wednesday, the victim’s family spoke only to Boston 25 News outside the courthouse where the alleged assailant was being arraigned.

“We’re there, fighting for our lives,” said the victim, who has asked to remain anonymous.

The man is accusing one of the staff members at the Channing House in Worcester for taking advantage of him in his vulnerable state of recovery.

“For someone in that position, for that position of power, to take advantage of someone who is trying to get their life together and is vulnerable, it’s disgusting,” said the victim.

Since the accusation has come to light, Worcester Police have arrested Romario Robertson, who was arraigned in Worcester Superior Court on indecent assault and battery charges. According to court documents, Roberston is a manager at the home.

The victim told Boston 25 News he called police after he says Robertson slapped him from behind after dispensing his medication. He also claims he was groped three different times by Robertson since joining the home in August.

“Who knows who else he’s done this to that may have left the house or relapsed because of it," said the victim. “There were many comments made between that and the second time it happened, sexual comments.”

According to the victim, three other men living at the facility plan on reporting similar incidents to police.

A judge has ordered Robertson to stay away from the victim as well as the Channing House. In the meantime, Advocates Incorporated, the organization that owns the Channing House, has not yet responded to Boston 25 News’ request for comment. They have also not commented on Robertson’s employment status.

© 2020 Cox Media Group