An Oconee County man was recently charged in connection with neglecting to care for his father, which eventually led to the man's death.
According to a press release from the Oconee County Sheriff's Office, David Allen Stanton, 45, of Watkinsville, was arrested on Dec. 27, 2023, on charges of felony murder, reckless conduct and neglect to a disabled adult, elderly person or resident.
Additionally, Sandra Dee Bass, 61, also of Watkinsville, was arrested Tuesday and charged with neglect to a disabled adult, elderly person or resident.
The release said the investigation began when Oconee County deputies responded at about 2 a.m. on Dec. 27, 2023, to assist EMS on a medical call on Old Mars Hill Road. First responders found David's father, Arthur Kenneth Stanton, 63, of Watkinsville, in extreme medical distress when they entered the home.
"He required immediate medical transport to the hospital during which CPR had to be administered," the press release said. "It was obvious that Mr. A. Stanton had not been cared for properly for an extended period of time due to his physical condition and the soiled state of his bed and surrounding area."
Deputies proceeded to arrest David Stanton as a result of their on-scene investigation.
The following day, Dec. 28, 2023, Arthur Stanton died at St. Mary's Hospital. An investigation revealed he died due to negligent care he received from David Stanton. Bass, who also lived in the home, also allegedly failed to provide care to Arthur Stanton.
Both David Stanton and Bass remained in the Oconee County Jail as of Wednesday morning.
The case remains under investigation.
