Charges Filed Against West Virginia Woman for Husband’s Death
A woman in West Virginia faces serious allegations after reportedly leaving her ailing husband unattended on the toilet for 19 hours, with investigators claiming this neglect played a role in his death.
Margaret Rog, 75, was arrested on Tuesday and is charged with abuse or neglect of an incapacitated adult, in connection to the death of her 76-year-old husband.
Authorities assert that Rog left her husband, who had dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and severe vision impairment, on the toilet overnight last month, which led to various health complications that contributed to his demise, as reported by the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, her husband went to the bathroom around 3 p.m. on August 20. However, after he finished, Rog was unable to assist him off the toilet.
Surprisingly, instead of seeking help, she left him alone and unresponsive for nearly 19 hours without food, water, or medication, as per reports. It’s alleged that she witnessed her husband in pain but chose not to call for assistance, even going to bed while he remained stuck on the toilet.
The following morning, a speech therapist, who was scheduled for an in-home visit, found him unresponsive and in dire condition. This prompted a call for an ambulance, and he was quickly transported to the hospital.
Once there, he was diagnosed with numerous serious health issues, including heart and respiratory failure, a pulmonary embolism, and sepsis, among others.
He also presented with wounds on his backside, shortness of breath, and an altered mental condition. Tragically, he passed away in the hospital on August 31.
Investigators have indicated that the circumstances of his condition and the injuries resulting from being left unattended for so long were significant contributing factors to his death.
As the investigation unfolded, it seems Rog made statements that implied awareness of her husband’s need for aid but chose not to help him. She has pled not guilty to the charges and was released on a $75,000 bond.
