A Florida man, Allen G. Arias, has been convicted of aggravated manslaughter of an elderly person after the 2019 death of his 87-year-old grandmother, Anita Arias.
Prosecutors described the circumstances surrounding her death as “agonizing,” as she starved to death, was severely dehydrated, and suffered from bedsores that were infested with maggots.
The Tragic Death and Investigation
Anita Arias’ death came to light when Allen Arias, her legal caregiver, brought her to Holmes Regional Medical Center in Brevard County, located about 185 miles north of Miami. Shortly after her arrival, hospital staff noticed the severe condition of her body.
They immediately called law enforcement when they discovered Anita was covered in infected bedsores, some of which were infested with live maggots.
The bedsores, located on her back, legs, and feet, were not new, and the presence of live maggots suggested that she had suffered for an extended period. The authorities soon launched an investigation and discovered the filthy living conditions in the home where Anita Arias had lived with her grandson.
The home, located on Count Street in Melbourne, showed signs of neglect, with investigators recovering diabetes medications that had been prescribed to Anita but never administered.
Findings from the Autopsy
During the subsequent criminal trial, the prosecution presented evidence from the autopsy, which revealed that Anita died from dehydration, emaciation, sepsis, and highly elevated blood sugar.
Prosecutors emphasized that Allen Arias, who lived with his grandmother, was aware of her medical conditions, including her diabetes and mobility issues, and had a responsibility to care for her.
Jurors were shown distressing photos of Anita Arias’ extensive, infected bedsores, and the evidence pointed to Allen’s failure to fulfill his duties as a caregiver. His defense argued that his grandmother was a “lifelong curmudgeon” and a hoarder who refused to eat, take her medication, or attend doctor’s appointments.
However, the jury ultimately found Allen Arias responsible for her death, acknowledging that, as her caregiver, he had a duty to ensure she received proper care and medical attention.
The Verdict and Sentencing
Following 17 hours of deliberation, the jury found Allen Arias guilty of aggravated manslaughter of an elderly person. Brevard County Circuit Judge Tiffany Colon expressed her satisfaction with the verdict, noting that although Anita Arias may have been difficult at times, it was still Allen’s responsibility to provide for her care.
“It’s unfair to say she died the way she lived,” Colon said, highlighting the importance of fulfilling the duties of a caregiver.
Arias was taken into custody following the conviction and will be sentenced on August 20, 2025. He faces up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for his role in the death of his grandmother.
This tragic case sheds light on the heartbreaking consequences of neglect and the severe responsibility that caregivers hold for the well-being of vulnerable family members.
While Anita Arias did not live to see justice served, her family can take solace in knowing that Allen Arias has been held accountable for his actions. His conviction is a stark reminder of the importance of providing proper care for elderly loved ones.
