An Indiana woman has been charged after authorities said her elderly father and developmentally delayed brother were found living in extremely unsanitary conditions inside an apartment in Evansville.
Woman Accused Of Neglect
According to court documents, 51-year-old Kathryn Ann Payton faces two counts of neglect of a dependent.
Police said the investigation began after a pest control worker visited the apartment on May 1 and noticed one resident appeared sick and covered in waste. The apartment manager then contacted authorities for a welfare check.
Victims Found In Poor Condition
Investigators said officers found Payton’s father and brother covered in urine and feces inside the apartment. Authorities described the living conditions as extremely filthy, with waste found on furniture, floors, and bedding.
Medical crews said both men appeared seriously neglected and in poor health. One man reportedly had low oxygen levels and a severe cough, while the other had open sores and needed help standing.
Both victims were taken to a hospital for treatment and later admitted for further medical care.
Police Say Neglect Was Intentional
According to investigators, Payton admitted she was the primary caregiver for both men.
Police said she told authorities she stopped helping them and removed their television to “teach them a lesson” about hygiene because they would not clean themselves.
Investigators also learned Payton was living at a different home while the two men remained in the apartment.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities said both victims were unable to properly care for themselves because of their physical and mental conditions.
Payton was arrested and later released on bond. The investigation remains ongoing.
