‘Unspeakable Conditions’: Virginia Woman Charged With Murder Of Dependent Stepfather, Authorities Say

A Virginia woman is accused of murdering her stepfather after he died from wounds suffered while in her care, authorities said.

Christine Kaye Meadows, 54, faces a felony murder charge in connection with the death of Velmer Eugene Stanley last summer, WJHL reported.

According to Tazewell County Commonwealth’s Attorney Christopher Plaster, Meadows served as a full-time caretaker and power of attorney for Stanley starting in 2020.

During that time, Plaster said, Stanley’s health “significantly deteriorated and he became incapacitated and fully dependent on Ms. Meadows’ care.”

On May 25, Stanley called emergency responders for help because he was experiencing pain. Stanley had bed sores on his body and “other unspeakable conditions,” Plaster said.

Stanley was admitted to Clinch Valley Medical Center, where he died on June 26.

“The facts of this case are incredibly heartbreaking,” Plaster said. “Mr. Stanley, along with all of our seniors, deserve the best care and treatment that we can offer. Abuse of an elderly or vulnerable adult is something that will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”