An Elderly Grovetown Man Is Dead, Son Charged With Neglect
An elderly Grovetown man was pronounced dead at a home in the 100 block of Howell Street in Grovetown July 17.
Officers responded to the home and found 74-year-old Herschel Copeland dead on the couch in the living room. Officers said it appeared he had died from natural causes.
“Mr. Copeland was found sitting in human excrement and urine and was also suffering from open sores on his body that were infested with insects,” according to Grovetown Police Chief Jamey Kitchens.
Officers also found Copeland’s wife, 72-year-old Song Copeland, who suffers from several medical issues and has limited mobility, according to a news release.
“The conditions inside the home were described as uninhabitable by Officers on the scene,” said Kitchens.
The Copeland’s son, 40-year-old Peter Copeland, had been living in the home and was believed to be the primary caregiver for his parents.
He reportedly told officers on the scene that his father had been on the couch and hadn’t moved for several days.
An elderly Grovetown Man Dead, His Son Has Been Arrested
The Columbia County Coroner’s Office was called to the scene and determined the elder Copeland had been dead for about 4 hours before they were called.
“Mrs. Copeland was checked by Gold Cross EMS and despite living in the deplorable conditions of the home, was found to be otherwise healthy,” said Kitchens.
Adult Protective Services was called and Mrs. Copeland was taken to a local hotel. Peter Copeland was taken into custody.
Charges Against Peter Copeland
- Neglect to a Disabled/Elderly Adult
Copeland is being held at the Columbia County Detention Center. Investigators are awaiting autopsy results on Herschel Copeland and will determine whether any additional charges will be filed.
Kitchens said this is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grovetown Police Department at (706) 863-1212.
