NORTH CHARLESTON, SC – A North Charleston man and his girlfriend are facing serious charges after authorities allege their severe neglect led to the death of his 76-year-old mother, who suffered catastrophic wounds and was found in unsanitary conditions in their shared home.

Kevin Carl Clark, 40, and Victoria Lynn Delaune, 33, were arrested Monday and charged with felony abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult resulting in death. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as Dianne Clark.

Deputies and paramedics responded to a home on the 2900 block of Otranto Road on July 29 following a report of an unresponsive woman. Emergency responders pronounced Dianne Clark dead at the scene. From the outset, investigators noted significant signs of neglect, saying the basic medical and personal care needs of the elderly woman had not been met.

A subsequent inquiry revealed that Clark and Delaune were acting as Dianne Clark’s primary caregivers at the time of her death. The investigation detailed appalling conditions within the home, including extensive insect presence, solidified waste, and bodily fluids contaminating the area where the victim was found. Authorities noted the elderly woman was wearing a heavily soiled adult diaper and showed numerous bedsores, many of which were infested with live maggots.

Records indicate that Dianne Clark’s prescribed medication had not been filled for several months, raising questions about the extent of her medical care and supervision.

According to investigators, an autopsy performed at the Medical University of South Carolina painted a grim picture of the woman’s suffering in her final days. The report cited sepsis due to osteomyelitis—an infection of the bone or bone marrow—as the cause of death. Investigators said a severe, untreated pressure sore in Dianne Clark’s lower back had developed to such an extreme level that her spine became exposed and eventually broke through her skin.

Medical officials determined the exposed wound became contaminated with fecal matter, resulting in the severe infection that proved fatal. Advanced neglect and inadequate hygiene on the part of the caregivers were cited as primary contributing factors.

Charleston County authorities described the conditions as highly unsanitary and testified that the scene suggested a prolonged period of neglect. The victim’s wounds were described as so severe that they contributed directly to her death.

Clark and Delaune are currently being held at the Charleston County Jail without bond. Court records show both suspects are awaiting their first court hearings, currently scheduled for December 19.

Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing as they review additional evidence and await further forensic analysis.

The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the risks faced by vulnerable adults who depend on others for care.