Woman accused of slapping nursing home patient gets probation

CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY, MO (KFVS) - A Cape Girardeau woman accused of slapping a 98-year-old nursing home patient will spend the next two years on probation.

According to officials at the Cape Girardeau County Courthouse, Sherri Sprenger pleaded guilty to a charge of elder abuse Wednesday morning.

The judge gave Sprenger two years in jail, but put her on probation instead.  But he told Sprenger she'd go to jail if she violates that probation.

Sprenger worked at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau. She's since been fired.

Police say she admitted to losing her temper because the patient yelled at her.

Sprenger says she responded by slapping the victim across the face with the back side of her hand. She says she didn't mean it, and she feels remorse.

Police responded after family members noticed bruising on the woman's face.

As part of her sentence, the judge ordered Sprenger to write the family an apology letter.

She also has to undergo anger management counseling, and perform 80-hours of community service.

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Woman charged with elder abuse of 98-year-old