Foot Fetishist Sentenced Up to 99 Years for Sexual Assault of 69-Year-Old Nursing Home Resident

Slidell, LA – A disturbing case of sexual assault involving a 69-year-old nursing home resident has culminated in a guilty verdict for Bobby Mendell Bester, a former janitor at the facility. Found guilty of sexually assaulting the elderly woman by rubbing her feet with lotion and pressing his genitals against them, Bester now faces a possible prison sentence ranging from 25 to 99 years.

The case, which dates back to 2018, reveals a sickening abuse of trust in a vulnerable setting, highlighting serious concerns about safety and accountability within nursing homes.

Details of the Disturbing Assault

According to the District Attorney J. Collins Sims and trial testimony, Bester, 47, entered the victim’s room under the guise of fulfilling his janitorial duties. The woman was lying in her bed when Bester made a comment about one of her socks falling off her foot. Witnesses testified that he then closed the door, shut the blinds, and began massaging the woman’s foot with lotion while asking if she was ticklish.

Prosecutors detailed that Bester tickled the woman’s feet and pressed them against his genitals repeatedly, stopping only when he heard footsteps outside. This pattern of abuse continued in secrecy until police acted years later.

Lengthy Investigation Ended With Arrest

It took law enforcement six years to arrest Bester, finally handcuffing him in February 2024. Despite acknowledging his foot fetish, Bester denied the allegations. However, the jury found him guilty of sexual assault.

The disturbing nature of the crime shines a light on the challenges of protecting elderly nursing home residents and ensuring their safety.

Additional Harassment Evidence

The trial also revealed testimony from another woman—a local real estate agent—who described Bester’s inappropriate behavior years earlier in 2007. Under the pretense of purchasing property, Bester contacted her office but instead sought a date. After being rejected, he left a lurid and disturbing voicemail saying,

“Can I [masturbate] on your feet? I know you got sexy feet. Can I just suck on it or something?”

This woman reported the incident to the police, contributing to the evidence against Bester.

Read Also: Boarding School Teacher Paul Geer Sentenced to 27 Years for Torturing and Sexually Abusing Students

Serious Legal Consequences Ahead

• Bobby Mendell Bester faces a prison term from 25 up to 99 years
• The conviction marks a significant victory for victims’ rights advocates and strengthens calls for better protections in nursing home facilities
• The case underscores the importance of rigorous background checks and staff monitoring in eldercare environments

For more information on this story and detailed court documents, visit the original New York Post report.

What Can Be Learned From This Case?

This unsettling case highlights how vulnerable individuals in nursing homes can fall victim to predatory behavior. It offers a stern reminder to institutions, caregivers, and families to remain vigilant and advocate vigorously for safe and respectful elder care.

“The verdict sends a clear message that exploitation and abuse of elderly residents will not be tolerated,” said a representative from the District Attorney’s office.

Key takeaways include:

• Implementing stricter supervision of staff within sensitive environments
• Encouraging reporting and thorough investigation of any irregular behavior within healthcare facilities
• Raising awareness about different forms of sexual abuse, including non-traditional assaults involving fetishes

Have Your Say

What do you think about this case and the broader issues of nursing home safety? Have you or your loved ones had experiences in eldercare facilities? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!