CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Police are investigating allegations of adult neglect after a 74-year-old ICU patient at Adena Health System made a concerning statement while receiving treatment. The investigation began following a mandated report filed by a nurse at the hospital on October 19, 2024.
According to the nurse, the patient had recently undergone shoulder surgery and was dropped off at home by a family member on Monday, October 14. It was reported that no one checked on the patient after their return home. A relative later discovered the patient on Thursday, October 17, lying on the floor, unable to move, covered in feces, and showing signs of altered mental status.
The patient was brought to Adena’s ICU for treatment and remains under medical care. While in the ICU, the patient pointed at two family members and made a statement that raised concerns about potential neglect. According to the police report, the patient pointed to two family members and stated “They did this to me”.
The nurse who filed the report indicated that the situation seemed suspicious and forwarded the report to Adult Protective Services for further review.
No charges have been filed at this time, and police are continuing to investigate the matter. Further details have not been released.