Lanzarote Care Home Investigation: Court Summons Issued in Amavir Elderly Residence Case
A court in Arrecife has taken the next step in the ongoing investigation into alleged mistreatment of elderly residents at the Amavir nursing home in Tías, Lanzarote.
The investigation, which has attracted significant attention across the Canary Islands, centres on allegations that vulnerable residents were subjected to degrading treatment by members of staff. While the case remains under investigation and no verdict has been reached, the court has now begun summoning those under investigation to give evidence.
What Has Happened?
According to information released through the judicial process, the Court of First Instance in Arrecife has already heard from one of the complainants who helped bring the allegations to the attention of the authorities. The court has also started issuing summonses to individuals being investigated as part of the criminal inquiry.
The investigation is currently examining whether offences relating to crimes against moral integrity and degrading treatment may have been committed. These remain provisional allegations while the judicial process continues, and the scope of the investigation could change as further evidence is examined.
Allegations That Sparked the Investigation
The case first came to public attention after photographs, videos and WhatsApp messages allegedly shared between employees were reported to the authorities.
Investigators are examining claims that images and videos showing vulnerable residents were circulated in private messaging groups, with some messages allegedly mocking or humiliating those living at the care facility.
Reports have also referred to footage and photographs allegedly showing residents in situations that raised serious concerns about dignity, supervision and standards of care. These allegations form part of the evidence now being considered by the court.
Amavir’s Response
Amavir previously confirmed that staff members connected with the allegations had been dismissed after an internal investigation. The company has rejected broader accusations of widespread neglect, while acknowledging the challenges faced by the care sector, including staffing shortages and recruitment difficulties.
As with any ongoing criminal investigation, those being questioned are presumed innocent unless proven guilty by the courts.
Why This Matters to Lanzarote Residents
The Amavir residence provides care for elderly and dependent people on the island, making the investigation particularly significant for many local families.
The case has also prompted wider discussions about safeguarding vulnerable adults, staff training, care standards and oversight within residential care facilities across Lanzarote and the Canary Islands.
Many residents and relatives will now be watching closely as the judicial investigation progresses.
What Happens Next?
The court will continue taking statements from complainants, witnesses and those under investigation before deciding whether there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
At this stage, no convictions have been made and the investigation remains ongoing.
