A father’s gut feeling turned into a heartbreaking reality when he installed a hidden camera in his 29-year-old son’s room at a group home in Bexar County, Texas. His son, who has severe autism and is non-verbal, had been coming home from the facility with mysterious bruises. The family had no way to communicate directly with him about what was happening. So, the father took matters into his own hands.
What he discovered was horrifying: the hidden camera captured multiple instances of his son being slapped, pushed, and aggressively handled by the very people who were supposed to be caring for him.
Caught on Camera: Violence Behind Closed Doors
The footage, according to Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar, shows staff members treating the man in an “absolutely inhumane” manner. The abuse appeared to be repeated and intentional, not isolated incidents. “It was hard to watch,” Salazar said at a press conference. “This was not care — this was cruelty.”
The video, described as deeply disturbing, quickly launched a criminal investigation.
Three Workers Accused, One Still on the Run
Three caregivers at the Maofu Home Healthcare-operated facility have been named as suspects. Tony Israel, 45, who was shockingly also a part-time deputy with the Bexar County Precinct 2 Constable’s Office, was arrested and has since been fired. Benjamin Tambe, 53, was also taken into custody.
A third man, Harrison Odiri, 52, remains at large. Authorities revealed that Odiri was in the U.S. on a tourist visa and wasn’t legally allowed to work in the first place. The sheriff’s office is actively searching for him.
All three face serious felony charges, including injury to a disabled person — a charge that can carry hefty prison time in Texas.
More Than Just Abuse: Facility Itself Under Fire
As the investigation deepens, the problems seem to go beyond just the individuals involved. The group home itself, located on Highland Lake Drive, has been cited for numerous safety violations. County fire officials said the facility had improper fire safety systems, overcrowding, and unsafe living conditions.
Anne Holland, the home’s manager, is also under investigation. Authorities are now questioning how the facility was operating and whether there was a systemic failure in protecting its residents.
“We’re looking into everything — from how they were hiring staff to how these residents were being treated on a daily basis,” Salazar added.
Community Shock and Growing Outrage
The abuse has sparked outrage across the community. Many are now questioning the standards and oversight of group homes, especially for people with disabilities who are unable to speak up for themselves.
Local disability advocates say this case underscores a broader issue — the need for tighter regulations, better training, and constant monitoring in facilities that house vulnerable individuals.
“People with autism, especially those who are non-verbal, are some of the most defenseless members of our society,” said one advocate. “They rely entirely on others for their safety. What happened here is inexcusable.”
A Call for Vigilance and Reform
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Sheriff Salazar said there could be more victims or witnesses out there.
For the family of the young man who was abused, the footage was devastating to watch — but at the same time, it confirmed what they had feared for months. Their quick thinking may have saved their son, and possibly others, from further harm.
Officials are now pushing for better regulation of care homes across Texas. This case may very well become a turning point in how care for people with disabilities is monitored and enforced.
