Tri-City Healthcare Board of Director member Charlene Anderson told 10News when fellow board member Kathleen Sterling came into the room where the meeting was held, security immediately surrounded her. Anderson said she saw Sterling pushing and shoving against five security guards while shouting that she just wanted to say hello to someone. Anderson described the scene as frightening.
"I saw a person with blood on his clothing," said Anderson. "I've never even heard of such a thing and I'm absolutely embarrassed."
Hospital administrators brought in three extra security guards specifically to control Sterling. Administrators said Sterling's frequent outbursts and verbal assaults at them during meetings – which include a time when Sterling referred to them as "Nazis" – are escalating into physical intimidation.
After the incident, Oceanside police arrived and took a report. Sterling was not arrested. Charges will not be filed because one of the injured guards does not want to press charges.
Board members have censured Sterling six times in the last six months. Part of that political reprimand forbids her from being in the same room as other board members during meetings. Sterling must stay in another room and communicate with the board through a speakerphone. On Thursday night, Sterling walked into the meeting anyway and was quickly blocked by guards.
Anderson said she doesn't feel safe around Sterling anymore because her behavior has become so erratic and unpredictable.
"Personally, I would feel better if I had a restraining order from her being anywhere near me," said Anderson.
No one answered the door at Sterling’s Oceanside home when 10News tried to get her side of the story. When reached by phone, Sterling refused to comment.
Hospital administrators said they intend to file a restraining order against Sterling so if she tries to walk into another meeting, she can be arrested.
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