Bennett Walsh and Dr. David Clinton, former leaders of the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, have been charged with criminal neglect for allegedly contributing to a horrific COVID-19 outbreak in the home that killed at least 76 residents. Both Bennett and Clinton were indicted on five counts of “wantonly or recklessly” allowing neglect, injury, abuse, or mistreatment of a disabled or older person. The home that housed elderly veterans has been under investigation since the beginning of April when excessive numbers of residents fell victim to COVID-19, apparently due to staffing shortages, mismanagement, and a lack of precautions. “We allege that the actions of these defendants during the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility put veterans at higher risk of infection and death and warrant criminal charges,” state attorney general Maura Healey said.