Scam :Helper's false accusation of molestation against employer

[Wyoung]

Hi everyone,

Just wondering if anyone had the above titled experience? I hope to relate my dad’s experience which can serve as a warning to future employers.

My elderly dad is close to 90 years old. A helper was engaged to take care of both my parents.

The helper accused my dad of molestation to get out of the job. Police came and took her away from my dad’s place while interrogating him. I believe the agency has aided her as she is new and wouldn’t have dared come out with such a scheme without advise.

My dad was under stress and felt helpless while the helper was placed in a comfortable home and will be given a temporary work with a hotel whilst earning more pay and having 2 days off. Meanwhile, my dad and his address was blacklisted and we couldn’t hire any helper to care for my bed ridden mum. We had to appeal to MP for help as MOM was insistance on the ban.

There is no recourse in our law for this false accusation. We hired a defence lawyer which cost $5K++. I regretted hiring as there is no recourse and its a waste of money.

I had to accompany my dad to police station for statements. After close to a year, the police decided not to proceed with the case and the helper’s agency forfeited all our fees without replacement as they claim it was in the contract but couldn’t show us where it was written.

This is clearly a loop hole exploited by agency and I hope to see if anyone had the same encounter. I hope the relevant authorities can look into this loop hole and prevent more employers from suffering this scam.

[sabatshenton]

Sorry this happened to your family. It sounds very stressful. A few practical points that may help others reading:

• Standard maid insurance covers the helper’s medical bills, personal accident and repatriation. It does not pay legal fees for an employer, and it does not refund agency fees.
• So the agency contract matters most. Before signing, ask to see in writing what refund or replacement applies if the helper leaves early or a case is raised.
• If an agency refuses a refund and cannot show the clause, you can ask CASE to help with mediation.
• Keep a written record of dates, messages and what each party said.