Misty McDaniel (Knox County Sheriff’s Office).
A Tennessee woman faces serious charges after allegedly neglecting her 74-year-old father to such an extent that three of his vertebrae were exposed due to severe pressure ulcers and untreated bed sores, authorities report. The woman is also accused of withholding his diabetes medication, resulting in his blood sugar levels soaring to over 600.
Misty McDaniel, aged 42, was apprehended in Knox County and is now charged with aggravated neglect of an elderly or vulnerable adult causing serious bodily harm. According to court records, obtained by local ABC station WATE, her father became bedridden following a stroke nearly ten years ago.
In the past six months, the father’s condition deteriorated significantly, with McDaniel allegedly failing to provide care. On January 2, he was hospitalized, where medical staff discovered his blood sugar exceeded 600 — a level that could potentially trigger a diabetic coma.
Upon examination, healthcare workers identified pressure ulcers and bed sores on his lower back and other areas, as detailed in court documents. He was immediately admitted to a critical care unit, requiring multiple surgeries to excise necrotic tissue and additional treatments for the alleged neglect.
Residing in Knoxville, McDaniel was responsible for her father’s care but reportedly avoided taking him to medical appointments, despite his diabetes and other health issues. Her husband was also assigned caregiving duties, according to PBS affiliate WVLT.
Police indicate that by the time McDaniel’s father reached the hospital, he had fallen behind on his diabetes treatment. His body showed exposed muscles and bones, a result of the “extensive” bed sores and ulcers, as reported by WVLT.
Police went to McDaniel’s home, where she lives with her father and husband, and found a supply of blood sugar medication that was never given to the dad. She was taken into custody and charged on Jan. 17.
McDaniel’s bond was set at $75,000 for the neglect charge.
