Family of Tech Strangled To Death By Psych Patient File Claim Against State of California

Update 1/28/25

The California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board was restructured and no longer exists. The department administering the Government Claims Program is the Department of General Services.

Original article 1/28/2025

The daughter of a psychiatric hospital tech who was tragically strangled has initiated legal proceedings against the state of California. This case has brought to light serious concerns about security measures in mental health facilities and the safety of healthcare workers.

Daughter Files Claim Over Mother's Death

Anna Bock, daughter of the late Donna Gross, has taken the first step towards holding the state accountable for what she alleges were security lapses that led to her mother's death. Bock has filed a claim with the California Department of General Services, setting the stage for potential legal action against the state.

The incident occurred in October 2010, at Napa State Hospital, where Donna Gross worked as a psychiatric technician. According to the claim, Gross was confronted by a patient in an outdoor courtyard of the hospital who robbed her and stole jewelry, gum, and a small amount of cash.  In a moment of desperation, she attempted to activate an alarm belt, a safety device designed to alert security personnel in emergency situations. However, the claim states that this crucial piece of safety equipment failed to function, leaving Gross vulnerable and without immediate assistance.

A watch, necklace, and earrings were found in Jesse Willard's room. Willard has a history of violence against women. An autopsy revealed that he used his hands and arms to strangle the victim. 

Failed Safety Measures and Alleged Negligence

The claim filed by Anna Bock outlines several alleged failures in the hospital's security protocols. Chief among these is the non-functioning alarm belt, a device that should have been a lifeline for staff members in dangerous situations. This malfunction raises serious questions about the maintenance and reliability of safety equipment in high-risk healthcare environments.

Furthermore, the claim alleges that the accused perpetrator, 37-year-old Jess Willard Massey, was granted access to hospital grounds despite having previously threatened another patient. This allegation, if proven true, could indicate a significant lapse in risk assessment and patient management protocols at the facility.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Outcomes

Jess Willard Massey has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and robbery in connection with Donna Gross's death. As the criminal case progresses, the civil action initiated by Anna Bock runs parallel, focusing on the broader issues of institutional responsibility and safety measures.

The filing of this claim is a preliminary step in the legal process. If the California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board does not agree to a settlement, Anna Bock may proceed with filing a lawsuit against the state. This case could have far-reaching implications for safety protocols in psychiatric hospitals and other healthcare facilities across California and potentially nationwide.

The healthcare community will be watching closely as this case develops, hoping for outcomes that will enhance the safety of all those working in challenging healthcare environments.