Sayre, PA – Joseph Hall, 39, of Sayre, Pennsylvania, has been convicted and sentenced for neglecting his partially paralyzed live-in girlfriend. Authorities say he ignored serious wounds that exposed her tailbone, leading to charges of neglect, assault, and criminal trespassing.
The Neglect Case
Hall was charged in January for neglecting his care-dependent girlfriend, who is paralyzed from the waist down. According to court records, Hall had agreed to provide in-home health care for her but failed to do so properly. As a result, the victim was found with deep, untreated wounds, including one covered in fecal matter. The wound was so severe that it exposed her tailbone.
Police were alerted to the situation after they were called to investigate the neglect. The victim’s condition was described as significant due to the lack of proper care and attention from Hall, despite his responsibility for her well-being.
Assault Charges and Criminal History
In addition to the neglect charges, Hall was also convicted of simple assault and criminal trespassing. His criminal behavior had extended beyond his relationship with his girlfriend. Hall was involved in a shoving incident at Page Manor, a retirement and persons-with-disabilities home in Athens, Pennsylvania, where he was accused of posing as a police officer and claiming he was searching for his wife.
Hall broke into the Page Manor facility and assaulted several residents while stating he was “looking for kids.” Police were familiar with Hall due to previous incidents, including assaults and trespassing at the facility. He admitted to having entered the building looking for his girlfriend, which led to further charges.
Sentencing
Last month, Hall was sentenced to a minimum of one year and five months in a state correctional facility, with a maximum sentence of six years. He also faces fines and additional costs related to the charges. The neglect of his girlfriend, combined with his criminal history, including previous charges for burglary, criminal mischief, and fraud, has resulted in significant legal consequences.
Community Reaction and Legal Outcome
The case has shocked the community, particularly as it involved a vulnerable person who depended on Hall for care. The legal outcome highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable for neglecting those in their care, particularly when the victim is unable to defend themselves.
The sentencing is seen as a step toward justice for the victim, who has suffered both physically and emotionally as a result of Hall’s neglect and actions.
