A Florida woman is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly assaulting her elderly, wheelchair-bound sister inside their shared Palm Beach County home.
Authorities say the 64-year-old suspect struck the victim with a cellphone, pushed her into furniture, and attempted to choke her during a heated dispute.
What Happened
On the evening of May 21, 2025, sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance in Palm Beach County, Florida.
According to law enforcement, the altercation occurred between two sisters — one of whom is elderly and uses a wheelchair.
The younger sister, Vikki Beth Cappola, 64, was arrested at the scene.
Key Details
Court documents indicate the following sequence of alleged events:
- Cappola struck her sister in the head with a cellphone.
- She then allegedly shoved the victim’s wheelchair into a dresser.
- The suspect reportedly placed her hands around her sister’s neck, choking her and restricting her ability to breathe.
- The victim said she experienced difficulty breathing during the attack.
A neighbor heard the cries for help and entered the home. She reportedly found Cappola with her arms around the victim’s neck. The neighbor intervened and shielded the victim, prompting Cappola to allegedly pull the neighbor’s hair.
The neighbor did not file charges.
Reactions or Statements
The older sister reportedly expressed fear for her safety and requested assistance from the Florida Department of Children and Families.
According to investigators, visible scratches were found on the victim’s shoulder. However, no injuries were noted on her neck.
After being read her Miranda rights, Cappola admitted to parts of the incident while denying other claims, authorities said.
Investigation or What’s Next
Cappola is charged with:
- Abuse of an Elderly Adult
- Domestic Battery by Strangulation
- Simple Battery
She was booked into the Palm Beach County Jail and later released on an $11,000 bond.
Cappola is represented by a public defender.
Upcoming court dates are scheduled for June 20 and July 17, 2025.
FAQs
Who is the suspect?
Vikki Beth Cappola, 64, of Palm Beach County, Florida.
What are the charges against her?
She faces felony charges of elder abuse, domestic battery by strangulation, and simple battery.
Was anyone seriously injured?
The elderly victim suffered difficulty breathing and scratches but did not show visible neck injuries, according to authorities.
What led to the attack?
Officials say an argument between the sisters escalated into physical violence.
What is the status of the investigation?
The case is ongoing, with future court appearances set for June 20 and July 17.
Summary / Final Takeaway
A troubling case of alleged elder abuse has emerged in Palm Beach County, with 64-year-old Vikki Cappola accused of attacking her wheelchair-bound sister.
As authorities continue their investigation, the case underscores the seriousness of domestic disputes involving vulnerable adults.