Viorel Pașca, accused by DIICOT of coordinating a network of illegal nursing homes in Bihor, and his family members have been placed under judicial control by the Bucharest Tribunal. According to lawyer Răzvan Doseanu, the court decision applies to Viorel Pașca, his wife Florica, and his sons Emanuel, Abel, and Daniel Sabin, as well as Delia Pacala. The decision is not final.
Why was Viorel Pașca accused by DIICOT?
DIICOT alleges that Pașca coordinated a network of illegal care facilities in Bihor County. The investigation centers on the management of 409 vulnerable individuals found across these centers. While prosecutors sought preventive arrest, the Bucharest Tribunal opted for judicial control for the suspects.
Pașca denies the criminal nature of his work. He told journalists he is “proud” of his activity, claiming he saved hundreds of people from extreme situations. He compared his role to the final scene of Schindler’s List, stating his only regret is that he might not have saved “one more” person.
How did the illegal nursing home network operate?
According to Pașca, the facilities provided a sanctuary for people coming from “extreme situations,” including individuals found in train stations or collapsing houses. He asserted that the conditions he provided, while modest, were far superior to the environments the patients left behind.
Regarding the financial aspect, Pașca provided a specific breakdown of costs to journalists. He stated that for 400 patients, only 25% (100 people) had any income. He estimated the cost of care at 2,000 lei per patient per month, which covered food, electricity, and care. He specifically noted the use of 700 diapers per day to illustrate the scale of the operation.
The dispute over seized funds
Investigators discovered significant sums of money during searches. Pașca claims these funds were not illegal profits but were earmarked for salaries and construction. He stated the money was present because it was the end of the month and intended for staff pay and a new, modern kitchen building currently under construction in the yard.
What happened during official inspections?
Pașca claims that a multi-agency inspection last year—including the Prefecture, Police, DSP, DSV, and AJPIS—actually praised his work. According to Pașca, officials told him he was doing a “good job” but recommended he authorize the premises.
He argued that authorization was practically impossible because the buildings were renovated homes. He questioned whether he should have demolished and rebuilt the structures just to meet rigid state standards.
Who was involved in the management of the centers?
While several family members are now under judicial control, Viorel Pașca denies that his children were involved in the operational or financial management of the centers. He told reporters that his children only helped with manual labor, such as mowing grass or gathering firewood, and had no role in the care of the patients.
FAQs about the Bihor Nursing Home Case
What is the current legal status of Viorel Pașca?
He and several family members are under judicial control following a decision by the Bucharest Tribunal.
How many people were affected by the case?
Authorities took over the care of 409 vulnerable individuals from the facilities.
What was Pașca’s defense regarding the state’s role?
Pașca claims he repeatedly asked Ministers of Health to take over the patients if his activities were deemed illegal, but he received no helpful response.
Want to stay updated on this legal battle?
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest developments in the DIICOT investigations and judicial rulings.
Keep reading