State investigators from Minnesota’s Department of Health have criticized an assisted living facility for neglect after it provided an excessive amount of alcohol to a mentally ill resident before a doctor’s appointment.

The case involved Don Brambrink, a resident of Covered Bridge Assisted Living in Holdingford. According to a report from FOX 9 Minneapolis, the facility gave Brambrink 18 shots of liquor within 24 hours leading up to a scheduled appointment, resulting in his neglect.

Brambrink missed the appointment after consuming excessive alcohol while fishing. The registered nurse at the facility described Brambrink as being “dead to the world” due to his level of intoxication. Detailed records outlined his alcohol consumption, with specified times indicating when multiple shots and a beer were provided.

Brambrink’s primary care physician recommended he be transported to the emergency room due to concerns about his health.

The investigative report noted that Brambrink’s blood alcohol concentration was 0.23%, nearly three times the legal limit. Despite hospital suggestions to monitor Brambrink for alcohol withdrawal, he refused further intervention and expressed a preference to continue drinking.

Brambrink’s mental health diagnoses include psychoactive substance abuse and anxiety. He has a history of hearing voices and previous alcohol abuse, which he reportedly used to mitigate symptoms.

The facility allegedly had an “alcohol plan” allowing Brambrink two shots per hour to manage his symptoms.

Trista Barstow, owner of Covered Bridge, defended their approach, highlighting the facility’s willingness to accommodate individuals with severe alcoholism. Barstow argued this approach was a proactive strategy, although she acknowledged its unconventional nature.

In a statement, Barstow emphasized the rights of competent adult residents to make their own choices, even if those include excessive drinking, in accordance with the Minnesota Resident Bill of Rights. The facility’s role, she stressed, was to educate and monitor the residents while providing necessary interventions when warranted.

Fox News Digital reached out to both Covered Bridge and the Minnesota Department of Health to seek additional comments on the matter.