Mental health counselors sued after woman attacked in Alton residence

A Madison County woman has filed a lawsuit against an Alton resident and her counselors claiming she was attacked in the woman's home.

Michelle Delaurenti filed the complaint June 27 in Madison County Circuit Court against Marjorie Heine, Chestnut Health Services Inc. and Southwestern Illinois Visiting Nurse Association.

Delaurenti says she was visiting Heine's house in September 2009 when Heine allegedly hit her in the head and threw her to the floor. Delaurenti claims the attack was without warning or provocation. She also insists Heine's counselors, Chestnut Health Services and Southwestern Illinois Visiting Nurse Association, knew of Heine's violent nature and failed to provide adequate safety measures.

Delaurenti accuses Heine of battery and accuses her counselors of negligence. She is asking for an undetermined amount of money in damages for medical expenses, loss of income and court costs.

Attorney Doug Mendenhall of Alton is representing Delaurenti..

Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 11-L-625.