In Oviedo, a distressing case of elder abandonment unfolded when a man was detained by the Asturias Police Department’s Provincial Judicial Police Brigade, accused of crimes against moral integrity and neglect of duty to help. The arrest occurred last week on Tuesday, August 9, after investigators alleged that an 80-year-old woman had been left alone in deplorable hygienic conditions, with a single package of biscuits as her only sustenance.
Earlier, on June 24, police officers were dispatched to the hospital to request an on-duty physician. The elderly woman had died just moments before arrival and presented indications of poor care and possible mistreatment. The medical staff asked CIMACC 091 for a coroner to attend the scene so an autopsy could determine the cause of death. During the inquiry, neighbors and friends who had been aware of the situation reported that they had gradually lost contact with the deceased since October, raising concerns about her welfare.
The investigation included reviewing phone records, including calls from the deceased’s circle and from a person who claimed to be the caregiver. Authorities also examined interactions with 112 and with local police channels. Several friends and neighbors had repeatedly requested police involvement because the caregiver, who claimed responsibility for the woman, kept others out of the home and did not respond to attempts at contact by phone or in person.
The caregiver told the attending doctor that visits were difficult for several days, claiming to be unable to see the woman for three to seven days. Her stated focus appeared to be tending to cats living at the residence rather than addressing the elderly resident’s needs. When officers entered the home to retrieve the cats for transfer to an animal shelter, they found the house empty, with no refrigerator or washing machine, and laundry piled in the tub amid months of dirt and grime in the bathroom.
The elderly woman had spent multiple days confined to bed and unable to move, receiving minimal sustenance and surviving on a lone box of cookies. Observations led investigators to conclude that the caregiver provided insufficient care, perhaps in an effort to prevent others from witnessing the severity of the abandonment and neglect. The case underscores ongoing concerns about elder protection and the responsibilities of caregivers.
Experts note that isolating an elder, neglecting basic hygiene, and limiting access to food are critical warning signs that require prompt attention from authorities and community members alike. The situation in Oviedo reinforces the need for robust reporting mechanisms, early intervention, and clear accountability for anyone entrusted with the care of vulnerable adults. The authorities continue to pursue a full investigation to determine all factual details and any other persons who may be involved. Attribution: National Police Asturias, with ongoing updates provided to the public as the case develops.