Rock Hill Woman Dies Due To Neglect: Two Daughters Charged
ROCK HILL, S.C.: A New Turn In Elderly Care Neglect
Rock Hill, South Carolina has taken center stage in an unprecedented event highlighting alleged elder abuse. Sisters, Martha Rutledge, 73, and Nancy Rutledge, 68, of Rock Hill have been charged with neglect leading to the death of their elderly mother.
Charges Over Lack of Care
Local Police have issued warrants for both women on charges of abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult resulting in death. The two sisters turned themselves in at the Rock Hill Police Department, where they were issued their arrest warrants.
Responding To A Death Investigation
Police were alerted to anomalous circumstances when they were called in for a death investigation at the victims’ home on Greenwood Lane, back on 14th August 2023. Emergency Medical Services had made an unsuccessful attempt to revive the 99-year-old woman. Detectives, however, managed to notice signs indicating potential neglect that may have directly resulted in the victim’s death.
The victim’s daughters, Martha and Nancy Rutledge, were identified as her primary caretakers raising further questions about the care she was receiving.
Autopsy Reveals Fatal Neglect
The autopsy report delineates a grim picture. The victim’s cause of death has been determined to be due to a lack of medical care. The elderly woman developed a sepsis infection and bone infections due to untreated bed sores which eventually led to her premature demise.
Bond Hearing Pending
Both the accused, Martha and Nancy Rutledge, are anticipating their bond hearing which will take place in a local court in the near future.
Older adults are at a higher risk of being neglected or abused, especially by their family members who are often their major caregivers. This case underscores the urgency for awareness and stringent measures to prevent elderly neglect. Stay tuned for further updates on this case.
