Married woman shacked up with new boyfriend while her husband with dementia was home alone rotting, police say

An Indiana woman is facing felony charges after investigators alleged she abandoned her elderly husband, who suffered from advanced dementia and serious medical conditions, leaving him alone in a deteriorating home where he eventually died.

Authorities arrested Rebecca Dewey, 68, following an investigation into the death of her husband, Robert Dewey, 70, whose body was discovered inside the couple’s residence months after he was last seen alive. Prosecutors allege that Rebecca Dewey had moved out of the home and was living with a new boyfriend while her husband was left without adequate care or supervision.

Welfare Check Leads to Grim Discovery

The investigation began after concerned individuals requested a welfare check on Robert Dewey. When deputies entered the residence, they found conditions that investigators later described as shocking.

According to police reports, Robert’s body was discovered inside the home in an advanced state of decomposition. Authorities believe he had been dead for an extended period before being found. Investigators also reported finding evidence suggesting he had been living in extremely poor conditions prior to his death.

Medical personnel and investigators at the scene noted that the home appeared neglected and that Robert, who reportedly suffered from dementia and other health issues, would have required regular assistance with daily activities.

Husband Allegedly Needed Constant Care

Court documents indicate that Robert Dewey had significant cognitive impairment due to dementia and was unable to safely care for himself without assistance.

Investigators allege that despite knowing about her husband’s condition, Rebecca Dewey left the residence and spent substantial amounts of time living elsewhere with another man. Authorities claim she failed to arrange alternative care, medical supervision, or regular welfare checks for her husband during her absence.

Detectives reportedly gathered statements from witnesses who described Robert as increasingly vulnerable and dependent on others for everyday needs. The investigation seeks to determine exactly how long he remained alone before his death.

Financial and Living Arrangements Under Scrutiny

As part of the investigation, authorities examined Rebecca Dewey’s living situation and relationship with her boyfriend.

According to investigators, she had effectively relocated from the marital home while maintaining limited contact with her husband. Prosecutors argue that her actions amounted to abandoning a dependent adult who required ongoing care and protection.

Detectives are also reviewing financial records and other evidence to better understand the circumstances surrounding Robert’s final months and whether additional neglect occurred before his death.

Criminal Charges Filed

Rebecca Dewey has been charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in death, a serious felony offense under Indiana law.

Prosecutors allege that her failure to provide necessary care directly contributed to the circumstances that led to Robert’s death. The charge does not require proof that she intentionally caused his death, but rather that she knowingly failed to meet legal responsibilities owed to a dependent individual under her care.

If convicted, she could face a lengthy prison sentence.

Community Reacts to Disturbing Allegations

The case has drawn significant attention because it involves allegations of elder neglect involving a vulnerable adult suffering from dementia.

Advocates for seniors note that individuals with advanced cognitive disorders often rely entirely on caregivers for food, medication, hygiene, and safety. Without consistent care, they can quickly face life-threatening circumstances. Cases involving alleged abandonment frequently raise broader concerns about caregiver responsibilities and the protection of elderly adults.

Investigation Continues

Authorities continue to review evidence as the criminal case moves through the court system.

Investigators are working to establish a detailed timeline of Robert Dewey’s final weeks and determine the extent of care he received before his death. Additional court hearings are expected in the coming months as prosecutors present evidence supporting the neglect allegations.

Rebecca Dewey remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

The case has become a stark reminder of the vulnerability of elderly individuals suffering from dementia and the critical importance of ensuring that those who depend on caregivers receive proper attention, supervision, and medical support. Families and advocates alike are closely following the proceedings as authorities seek answers about what happened inside the Indiana home where Robert Dewey spent his final days.