Maricopa County, Arizona — An Arizona man is facing criminal charges after authorities say they discovered his disabled adult son in horrifying living conditions during a welfare check, with investigators alleging the victim had been left in a bathtub for nearly two months without receiving proper medical care.
According to an arrest affidavit, 52-year-old Melvin Shimkus was arrested after officers entered the home on June 29 and found his 31-year-old son in an extremely weakened condition. Police described the victim as severely malnourished and suffering from significant physical injuries that required immediate medical attention.
Welfare Check Revealed Disturbing Conditions
Officers said they noticed a strong odor immediately after entering the residence. According to investigators, the victim was found lying in a bathtub, where relatives told police he had remained since the middle of May.
Authorities described the man as “extremely emaciated,” “only skin and bones,” and covered in feces when officers located him. Investigators also reported that his right leg had been secured with small ropes, while his right foot appeared severely deformed.
One responding officer said the victim’s injuries were shocking.
“From his knee to his foot, it appeared the muscles were gone, leaving only skin and bone.”
Police also noted that both of the man’s lower legs appeared purple, raising further concerns about his condition.
Officers Describe Severe Injuries
According to the affidavit, officers observed that the victim’s right knee appeared bent approximately 90 degrees in the opposite direction, indicating a potentially serious injury.
Authorities said the condition of the victim suggested he had gone without adequate care for an extended period.
He was immediately transported to a hospital following the welfare check. Officials have not publicly released an update on his medical condition.
Father Claimed Son Refused Medical Treatment
During questioning, Shimkus reportedly told investigators he had been caring for his son for about a year because the victim suffers from a nerve disease that limits his ability to walk and significantly restricts the use of his hands.
According to police, Shimkus claimed he had placed his son in the bathtub only about a week before officers arrived.
He also told investigators that he had offered to take his son to the hospital after noticing one of his legs was severely bent, but said the victim repeatedly refused medical treatment.
Family members, however, provided investigators with a different timeline.
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The victim’s uncle reportedly told police that his nephew had been in the bathtub since mid-May and that he could regularly smell feces coming from the bathroom.
The man’s aunt also reportedly told investigators that the victim had remained in the bathtub for several weeks, although she could not recall the exact length of time.
Investigation Leads to Criminal Charge
The aunt later told local media that family members had previously attempted to convince the victim to seek medical treatment. She said paramedics had responded to the home on May 16 but were unable to transport him because he refused care.
“Everyone tried to convince [the son] to go. When the paramedics came, he said no. They turned around and walked off, said we can’t touch him. He’s an adult.”
Following the latest welfare check, Melvin Shimkus was charged with vulnerable adult abuse. Court records show he was being held in the Maricopa County jail on a $12,000 bond while the investigation continues.
Authorities have not released additional information about the victim’s current condition.
What are your thoughts on this case? Should authorities have broader powers to intervene when vulnerable adults repeatedly refuse medical care under these circumstances? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
