Lewiston, ID – On November 11, 2022, the Lewiston Fire Department received a medical call of an unconscious 72 year old female at a residence in the 3100 block of 7th Street. Firefighters and medical personnel found the female to be breathing and transported her to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center where she later died. LFD notified the Lewiston Police Department of their concerns regarding the suspicious death. Lewiston Police Department Detectives began investigating the death and observed injuries common with neglect. Detectives learned the victim had dried blood/fecal matter on her body, bed sore injuries common with laying in one position without moving, extremely long/curling toe nails, malnourishment, and was covered in dark brown vomit. The doctor tending to the victim reported finding multiple hygiene dermatitis rashes and skin breakdowns over the victim’s entire body, which was worse in the pelvic region and buttocks, and on the left side of her body.
Detectives learned the deceased woman’s daughter, Cindi Williams (37 yoa, Lewiston) was the sole person taking care of her. According to the Probable Cause affidavit, Ms. Williams was allegedly tending to the care of the victim to include bathing, feeding, and providing care for the last 3-4 years. LPD Detectives served a search warrant on the residence and found the house to be extremely cluttered, littered with assorted clothes, and other property/trash. All detectives wore personal protective equipment because of the unsanitary conditions. A small white toy poodle was huddled on the kitchen floor that was distressed and obviously in poor health. Animal Control responded to the scene and took the dog to the vet for examination. Detectives placed Ms. Williams into custody and she is currently at the Nez Perce County Detention Center.
In court today, the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office filed a single felony count of Neglect of a Vulnerable Adult charge against Ms. Williams. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges will be considered once an autopsy has been completed. The Prosecutor’s Office asked for $20,000 bond because of the nature of the charges and Ms. Williams does not have any prior failure to appear warrants or felony cases. Judge Sunil Ramalingam ordered a $10,000 bond. Ms. Williams next court date will be in the coming weeks.
