An elderly man was tragically found deceased, with reports suggesting that an Indiana couple may have neglected him as he was discovered in a distressing state, seemingly sunken into the couch.
A couple in their 60s and 40s are facing charges related to the death of the alleged family member.
Reports from the Evansville Courier & Press, WFIE, and WEHT indicate that Frederick allegedly contacted the police on June 23 to report the passing of his father-in-law, as stated in a police affidavit. However, when the authorities arrived, the news outlets stated that Rickenbaugh was discovered in a room with a strong odor and his skin had adhered to a couch.
The victim has been identified by the authorities as Kenneth Rickenbaugh.
According to online jail and court records, Frederick and Carmen are facing multiple charges including neglecting a dependent, altering the scene of death, failure to report human remains, and exploitation of a dependent or endangered adult.
Both individuals were taken into custody and placed in jail on August 16th.
Attempts to contact the attorneys representing Frederick and Carmen Groves for comment were unsuccessful. It remains uncertain whether either defendant has entered a plea.
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According to the reported affidavit, the police who arrived at the Evansville home noted that the floor had recently been cleaned.
Based on the information provided by WEHT, the police have stated that Frederick reportedly confessed during an interview to not entering the room where Rickenbaugh was discovered. Additionally, it was Carmen who allegedly provided food for the elderly man. According to the Courier & Press, Frederick reportedly informed the police that his father-in-law was bedridden and receiving minimal care.
According to the affidavit, Frederick reportedly informed the police that he believed Rickenbaugh had soiled himself while sitting on the couch. He also mentioned hearing his father-in-law call out for help, as reported by The Courier & Press.
Frederick and Carmen both have hearings scheduled for Sept. 30.
According to jail records, Frederick and Carmen are currently being held on a bond of $100,000 each.
