EVANSVILLE, IN – An elderly man’s tragic death has led to the incarceration of his daughter and son-in-law, who are accused of neglecting him as he died in unsanitary conditions in their Indiana home. Authorities allege the neglect was also motivated by financial gain, as the couple reportedly had been cashing the man’s Social Security checks.

A chilling scene awaited responders in Evansville as the body of 73-year-old Kenneth Rickenbaugh was discovered in a feces-laden, blood-stained couch. The state of decay suggested that Rickenbaugh, bound by illness, had not moved from the couch for an extended period, succumbing to a combination of heart disease, emphysema, dehydration, and the severe effects of neglect.

Frederick Groves, 60, and Carmen Groves, 49, face serious charges, including neglect of a dependent resulting in death and failure to report human remains. The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office has also accused the couple of financially exploiting the vulnerable senior by depleting his bank account, which received monthly Social Security deposits.

The investigation unveiled horrifying details, including signs that Rickenbaugh, largely immobilized, received no meaningful care in the time leading up to his demise. Authorities noted the absence of basic hygiene or assistance, leaving him in a state of abject neglect. When questioned, Frederick Groves admitted to being unable to endure the smell from Rickenbaugh’s living area, stating he’d hear cries for help but assumed the senior was attending to his own needs.

Further examination revealed a scene carefully altered by the Groves before authorities were alerted. A mop and bucket containing filthy water suggested a hurried clean-up effort, ostensibly to conceal the extent of neglect. Initially, the couple provided conflicting justifications for their cleaning activities, further arousing suspicion.

Financially, evidence pointed to the Groves using Rickenbaugh’s funds for personal expenses, including purchases from Walmart and Family Dollar, which investigators determined were unlikely to have benefited the ailing man.

As Kenneth Rickenbaugh’s health declined appropriately, professional medical care was needed—a service the Groves withheld despite having assumed responsibility for his well-being. The coroner’s findings highlighted a slew of complications that led to Rickenbaugh’s death, painting a portrait of suffering that may have stretched for weeks.

Currently detained in the Vanderburgh County Jail with bonds set at $100,000 cash each, the couple awaits a court hearing scheduled for September 30.

This case of alleged neglect and exploitation has sent shockwaves through the local community, serving as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by dependent adults and the dire consequences of neglect by trusted caregivers.