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Rockledge, FL – A 71-year-old man has died after what authorities describe as severe neglect at the hands of his primary caregiver and son, Alton Leamon Cardwell. Cardwell, who was entrusted with the care of his bedridden father, Jimmy Cardwell, is now facing charges of aggravated manslaughter following a harrowing investigation into the elder Cardwell’s death.
The investigation began on August 28, 2024, when emergency responders brought Jimmy Cardwell to Rockledge Regional Medical Center in critical condition. Despite emergency surgery, he succumbed to his injuries that evening. Medical personnel reported disturbing signs of neglect, including emaciation, unsanitary conditions, and severe wounds. His left foot was infected and covered in dead skin and overgrown toenails, while two large pressure ulcers on his back and shoulder exposed infected tissue down to the bone.
Dr. Patrick Connolly, the attending ER physician, confirmed in a sworn statement that the victim was in severe pain and displayed advanced signs of neglect. According to Dr. Connolly, Jimmy Cardwell expressed fear of his son and did not want to return home, stating he felt unsafe.
Detectives interviewed Alton Cardwell, who admitted to being his father’s full-time caregiver for the past two years. During the interview, Cardwell revealed troubling care practices, admitting his father was bathed only every few months and provided with minimal medical attention. Despite receiving $2,000 monthly in Social Security benefits intended for his father’s care, Cardwell could only account for $300 spent on necessary supplies. The remainder of the funds allegedly went toward personal expenses, including rent and household items.
Cardwell acknowledged he was aware of his father’s deteriorating condition, including the infected foot and the pressure ulcers, yet failed to seek medical treatment. Instead, he relied on self-purchased gauze and ointment from Amazon, which proved insufficient. Cardwell admitted his neglect contributed to his father’s suffering and eventual death.
An autopsy conducted on August 29, 2024, revealed that Jimmy Cardwell died from complications of sepsis and osteomyelitis, stemming from untreated pressure ulcers. The medical examiner concluded that the cause of death was directly related to medical neglect and classified the death as a homicide.
Cardwell has been charged with aggravated manslaughter and remains in custody. Authorities highlighted his reckless disregard for his father’s life and well-being, noting numerous missed opportunities to seek medical care that could have prevented the tragic outcome.