Man charged after father found dead in 'deplorable conditions' in Grovetown home

The Grovetown Police Department arrested an elderly man's son after he was found dead in "deplorable conditions" in their home.

Peter Copeland, 40, is charged with neglect to a disabled/elderly adult, according to a news release from the department. Additional charges are anticipated.

Officers responded to the 100 block of Howell Street in Grovetown on Wednesday night for a death, according to the release.

When officers arrived, they found Herschel Copeland, 74, dead on the living room couch from apparent natural causes, according to the release. He was sitting in human excrement and urine and was also suffering from open sores on his body that were infested with insects.

The man's 72-year-old wife was also in the home, suffering from several medical issues and limited mobility, according to the release. Officers on scene described the conditions inside of the home as "uninhabitable."

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The couple's son, Peter Copeland, also lived in the home and acted as the primary caregiver and provider for his parents, according to the release. During the investigation, Peter Copeland told officers his father was on the couch and "had not moved for several days."

The Columbia County Coroner's Office responded to the scene and determined Hershel Copland was dead for about four hours, according to the release. His wife was checked by Gold Cross EMS and despite living in the deplorable conditions of the home, was found to be otherwise healthy.

Adult Protective Services was contacted and the woman was taken to a local hotel, according to the release.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information concerning the event, or others, is encouraged to contact the Grovetown Police Department at 706-863-1212.