Community Corner
Millbrae Caretaker to Stand Trial on Assault, Elder Abuse Charges
Jalome Sukulu Balekaba is accused of striking an 88-year-old man with his own walker. The man later died.
By Bay City News
A caretaker accused of hitting an elderly Millbrae man on the head with his own walker, causing serious injuries, will stand trial on assault and elder abuse charges, according to San Mateo County prosecutors.
Jalome Sukulu Balekaba, 50, was ordered to stand trial Thursday after a preliminary hearing and will return to court on June 7 to set a trial date.
Balekaba was arrested on Dec. 19, 2011, after the 88-year-old man he was looking after was found bleeding heavily from a head wound while Balekaba slept in the next room, according to prosecutors.
Police had responded to the residence for a welfare check after the victim's nephew called to report that Balekaba sounded drunk over the phone.
The victim was taken to the hospital, where he became comatose and was treated for a stroke. He died about 10 weeks later.
Investigators determined that the victim was struck by his own walker, according to prosecutors.
Balekaba remains in custody in lieu of $200,000 bail.
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