Las Vegas Woman Sentenced for Unlicensed Group Home Fire That Killed Resident

A Las Vegas woman, Shawna Virginia Cuff, 41, faces 12 to 30 months in prison after being sentenced on Wednesday for neglect charges related to a fire at her unlicensed group home that resulted in the death of a resident.

According to the Nevada Attorney General’s office, the fire occurred at a facility lacking proper licensing and safety measures. Investigators discovered the room where the resident became trapped had been “altered without proper permits” and lacked crucial safety features like windows, exit signs, fire extinguishers, an evacuation plan, and a sprinkler system.

The trapped resident sustained severe burns and later succumbed to their injuries.

Cuff was found guilty of attempted neglect of a vulnerable person and sentenced by Judge Michael Villani. She will serve her sentence in the Nevada Department of Corrections and is also required to pay over $30,000 in costs and penalties.

The Attorney General’s office initiated the investigation after the North Las Vegas Police Department reported potential neglect at the group home. The North Las Vegas Fire Department subsequently responded to a fire at the facility where one person was critically injured and unlikely to survive.

The investigation revealed that Cuff had rented a converted closet to the vulnerable individual despite knowing they required additional care. Additionally, investigators discovered improper modifications made to the doors, creating an obstructed escape route.

“Nevada law mandates licensing for such facilities and requires qualified caregivers to be present,” stated Attorney General Ford. “These regulations aim to safeguard individuals from tragedies like this one. We share Judge Villani’s outrage over this case, but are satisfied with the fair sentence. My office remains committed to investigating and prosecuting those who neglect their responsibility towards the elderly and vulnerable.”

Credits: Fox5Vegas