ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) — A social worker employed by Absolut Care of Orchard Park is accused of pushing a nursing home resident to the ground before kicking her.

Prosecutors say Cheektowaga resident Susan Sanborn, 55, was observed on surveillance video pushing the 68-year-old resident during an incident near an exit door. Once the resident was on the ground, prosecutors say Sanborn kicked the their legs out of the way so that she could close the door and leave.

Authorities say Sanborn did not wait with the victim for medical help and did not return to check on them. The resident, who suffers from a brain injury and seizures, is a high risk for falls and cannot take care of herself.

“Nursing home residents are among our state’s most vulnerable citizens and their safety and security should be a given in a nursing facility,” said Attorney General Schneiderman. “My office will not tolerate anyone being abused by those responsible for their care, and we will continue working to ensure that those most in need of help are safely cared for and treated with respect and dignity.”

Sanborn faces charges of endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person — a felony, and willful violation of health laws.

She could face up to four years behind bars for the felony charge alone. During a court arraignment, Sanborn pleaded “not guilty.”