A West Virginia woman has been arrested after authorities alleged she left her 76-year-old husband sitting on a toilet for approximately 19 hours, resulting in injuries that investigators say contributed to his death.
According to KPTV, the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office charged 75-year-old Margaret Rog with abuse or neglect of an incapacitated adult. Investigators said Rog’s husband suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, legal blindness, and several other medical conditions that required ongoing care.
Authorities allege the man went to the bathroom at approximately 3 p.m. on Aug. 20. When Rog was unable to help him stand, investigators say she left him unattended without food, water, or his prescribed medications.
Speech Therapist Found Man Unresponsive
According to investigators, the man remained on the toilet until approximately 10 a.m. the following day.
His condition was discovered after a speech therapist arrived at the home for a scheduled visit and found him unresponsive.
The therapist immediately called for an ambulance.
Investigators allege Rog never contacted emergency services for assistance and instead went to bed while her husband remained in the bathroom.
<h2>Victim Later Died at Hospital</h2>
Authorities said the man was transported to a hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with heart failure, a pulmonary embolism, and shortness of breath.
He died on Aug. 31.
According to court documents, Rog allegedly made incriminating statements to deputies and family members during the investigation.
Investigators also stated that evidence indicated Rog understood her husband’s need for assistance but ultimately chose to stop providing the care he required.
Rog has been charged with abuse or neglect of an incapacitated adult. The investigation remains ongoing.