Latasha Nowlin has been sentenced to 20.5 years in prison for the neglect of her disabled aunt, Jacqueline Reed, which resulted in her death.
On July 14, 2019, College Station Police and EMS responded to the home shared by Nowlin and Reed. They found 52-year-old Reed severely dehydrated and emaciated. Reed, who suffered from mental illness and was unable to care for herself, weighed only 60 pounds at the time.
Nowlin, a home health worker with years of experience, had been primarily responsible for Reed's care. According to Reed's attending physician, she had been denied fluids for at least a week, possibly longer. Reed was placed in hospice care but passed away the following month.
During the investigation, police discovered towels stuffed under Reed’s door and noted a strong odor coming from her room. When questioned about the smell, Nowlin admitted to lighting candles.
Nowlin was charged with Injury to a Disabled Person by Omission, a first-degree felony. A jury convicted her on October 9, 2024, following a three-day trial. On December 17, 2024, she was sentenced to 20.5 years in prison by the 361st District Court.
Assistant District Attorneys Adam Andreski and Kevin Capps prosecuted the case. "Jacqueline suffered needlessly and profoundly due to the extreme neglect of a family member who certainly knew better. The defendant's shocking indifference led directly to Jacqueline's death. The defendant's prison sentence is well justified," said Capps.
The District Attorney's Office expressed gratitude to Jacqueline Reed's healthcare providers for their compassionate treatment when she was finally hospitalized. The investigation was conducted by the College Station Police Department.
