Prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty against a former nurse at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center accused of killing two patients and attempting to kill a third.

Prosecution Pursues Death Penalty

Johnathan Howard Hayes appeared in Forsyth Superior Court for a Rule 24 hearing, where the judge determines eligibility for capital punishment. Prosecutors assert that Hayes acted alone in the alleged crimes.

Allegations Against Hayes

Hayes is accused of administering lethal doses of insulin to two patients, resulting in their deaths, and attempting to kill a third patient. The severity of the crimes prompts prosecutors to seek capital punishment.

Background of Allegations

Hayes allegedly committed the offenses between December 2021 and January 2022 while employed at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

Suspicious Circumstances

Detectives became suspicious after staff reported unusual circumstances surrounding the deaths of two patients. Gwen Crawford, who died in January 2022, and Vicky Lingerfelt, who passed away later that month, both exhibited signs of insulin overdose despite not being diabetic.

Incriminating Evidence

Surveillance footage allegedly captured Hayes withdrawing insulin from the medication room and accessing patients’ medical records without justification. Additionally, discrepancies in insulin usage and record-keeping raised further concerns.

Testimony and Investigation

Pamela Little, another patient, experienced a hypoglycemic episode under Hayes’ care. Detectives uncovered statements indicating Hayes’ suspicious behavior, including accessing medical records of patients not under his care.

Hayes’ Response and Interview

Hayes denied intentionally harming patients but admitted to possible errors in medication administration. However, his statements during police interviews and electronic communications raised doubts about his innocence.

Legal Action and Lawsuit

Following exhumation and autopsy results confirming homicide, Hayes faced charges of murder and attempted murder. A class action lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in supervising Hayes.

Conclusion: Justice Pursued

The pursuit of the death penalty against Hayes reflects the seriousness of the allegations and the commitment to seek justice for the victims and their families.

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