A 75-year-old Morgantown woman has been charged after investigators said her 76-year-old husband, who had multiple serious medical conditions, was left on a toilet for about 19 hours before he was found unresponsive.
Margaret Rog was arrested in connection with her husband’s death and charged with abuse or neglect of an incapacitated adult. Authorities said the man’s condition and injuries suffered while he remained on the toilet were significant contributing factors in his death.
The incident began on Aug. 20 at the couple’s home in Orchard Crossing in Morgantown, according to court records. Rog’s husband, who had been diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and legal blindness, went to the bathroom at about 3 p.m. Investigators said he was unable to get up afterward.
Rog reportedly tried to help him but was unable to get him off the toilet. Instead of getting additional assistance, investigators allege she left him there.
The man remained in the bathroom through the night without food, water or his prescribed medication, according to the criminal complaint. Investigators also said Rog heard him groaning in pain and understood that he needed help but did not call 911 or seek assistance.
A speech therapist who arrived at the home for a scheduled visit at about 10 a.m. the following morning found the man unresponsive and in dangerously poor condition. Emergency responders were called, and he was taken to Ruby Memorial Hospital.
Doctors found several serious medical problems, including heart and respiratory failure, a pulmonary embolism, sepsis, rhabdomyolysis and wounds to his backside. He also had an altered mental state and other complications, according to court records.
The man remained hospitalized until his death on Aug. 31, 11 days after he was found in the bathroom. Investigators later determined that his condition and the injuries associated with the prolonged time on the toilet played a significant role in his death.
The investigation began after adult protective services and law enforcement were notified about the man’s condition at the hospital. During the investigation, authorities said Rog made statements to investigators, adult protection officials and family members indicating that she understood her husband needed assistance but did not provide it.
Rog was taken to the North Central Regional Jail after her arrest. Her bond was set at $75,000, and she has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The case remains pending in Monongalia County. Rog’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for Sept. 25.
The allegations are contained in court documents, and the charge remains pending. A criminal charge is not a finding of guilt.
