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Delco caretakers accused of abusing woman with Down syndrome
Two relatives are facing charges after Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse said a 20-year-old woman with Down syndrome was found severely malnourished and abused in her own home.
COLWYN, Pa. - Charges have been filed against Yahnae Clegg-Brown and Naiyr "Hasan" Sanders after a detailed investigation into the alleged abuse and neglect of a 20-year-old woman with Down syndrome, according to the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office.
What we know:
Investigators say on April 25 emergency services were called after a person was seen crying on the front steps of a residence for about four hours in 40-degree weather with steady rain. A responding officer found the victim, who was initially believed to be a juvenile, soaked and holding a trash bag of clothes.
Authorities say the victim was actually a 20-year-old woman with Down syndrome. She was found in distress, suffering from injuries to her right eye, multiple marks on her body, and signs of malnourishment.
Naiyr "Hasan" Sanders and Yahnae Clegg-Brown. Credit: Delaware County District Attorney's Office.
Investigators say the victim had been systematically underfed and assaulted during her stay in the defendants’ home. She was allegedly forced to sleep on a deteriorating mattress without sheets, blankets, or pillows. Video footage allegedly shows Sanders pushing the victim down concrete steps and shutting the door in her face, as well as punching her in the face.
What they're saying:
Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse called the allegations "heartbreaking" and "beyond comprehension."
"Those entrusted with another person's care have a responsibility to protect them," Rouse said. "To have systematically abused a young woman in this way is beyond comprehension."
"It’s horrifying it is heartbreaking to know that there are children that are treated this way that there are young men and women who are disabled who are relying on others and to see someone so heartless it’s shattering every time," said Rouse. "There is never a point in your career, where you get used to something like this every time you read, the people are capable of this type of abuse. This type of neglect, this type of cruelty it shakes you plain and simple."
Rouse said there may also be federal charges coming because of the Social Security fraud.
Rouse said the victim is doing well and has gained 25 pounds since she was rescued.
Investigators say the case has shocked the community and raised questions about how the abuse went unnoticed for so long.
What's next:
Both Clegg-Brown and Sanders face three charges each, including neglect and abuse of a care-dependent person.
Sanders faces an additional charge for allegedly striking or threatening the victim.
Bail was set at 10% of $250,000 for each, and both were remanded to George W. Hill Correctional Facility. A preliminary hearing is set for July 16, 2026.