Tennessee Daughter Charged with Aggravated Neglect After Father's Severe Injuries
Court documents have revealed disturbing allegations against a Tennessee woman accused of neglecting her elderly diabetic father to such an extent that his vertebrae became visible through his skin. Misty McDaniel, 42, was arrested in Knox County on January 17 and charged with aggravated neglect of an elderly or vulnerable adult resulting in serious bodily injury.
Medical Crisis and Hospital Discovery
The case came to light when the 74-year-old victim was rushed to hospital on January 2 with dangerously high blood sugar levels. Medical staff recorded his blood sugar at over 600 - a level high enough to potentially induce diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome, a life-threatening condition that can prove fatal without immediate treatment.
During examination, nurses discovered extensive pressure ulcers and bed sores on the man's lower back and other areas. The neglect was so severe that three of his vertebrae were protruding through the skin, with muscles and bones left exposed due to what medical professionals described as "extensive" ulcerations.
Alleged Pattern of Neglect
According to court documents obtained by local outlet WATE, McDaniel and her husband had been acting as caregivers for the victim, who became bed-bound a decade ago following a stroke. The alleged neglect reportedly occurred over a six-month period as the man's health deteriorated.
Police investigation revealed that despite his serious medical condition, the victim had not been receiving his prescribed diabetes medication. Authorities discovered a supply of blood sugar medication at the family home that had never been administered to the patient.
Medical Intervention and Legal Proceedings
The victim required immediate admission to a critical care unit following his hospital arrival. Medical teams performed multiple surgeries to remove necrotic tissue from his wounds and address other urgent health concerns resulting from the prolonged neglect.
Court documents indicate that McDaniel and her husband failed to seek medical attention for the elderly man despite his worsening condition. The arrest occurred at the family residence where all three individuals lived together.
This case highlights serious concerns about elder care and the responsibilities of family caregivers, particularly when vulnerable adults suffer from chronic medical conditions requiring consistent treatment and monitoring.
