A Greencastle man who served as his elderly mother’s caregiver is under suspicion after his mother was allegedly starved to death. Randy Halton, 51, was booked by police on suspicion of neglect after his mother, Sandra Halton, was found dead in their home on December 5, 2024.
According to court documents obtained by WXIN, Sandra Halton’s condition at the time of her death was described as “literally skin and bones,” with a “mummified appearance.” Randy Halton reportedly called for assistance that morning, stating he had found his mother deceased in her bedroom.
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An autopsy revealed the cause of death to be malnutrition. The report chillingly noted the absence of any solid food in Sandra Halton’s digestive system. Disturbingly, during the autopsy, a bandage removal allegedly caused her skin to come off.
Randy Halton told investigators that his mother suffered from health issues, citing a thyroid problem. He claimed she had been having dietary issues and had not eaten the night before her death. He also stated he had tried to get her to eat and drink before putting her to bed around 6 p.m. the previous evening, and that he intended to take her to the hospital in the morning.
The investigation uncovered that Sandra Halton’s doctor had not seen her or her son since February. During that last visit, the doctor reportedly noted that she was already malnourished and anemic, weighing only 105 pounds.
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The doctor stated that upon viewing Sandra Halton’s body after her death, her condition showed “significant deterioration” since that February appointment. When questioned about why he hadn’t brought his mother back for medical attention, Randy Halton allegedly replied that “they had not called.”
Further details from court documents suggest that individuals who knew the Haltons believed Randy Halton was attempting to conceal his mother’s death. The ex-partner of a Halton relative reportedly told police that Randy Halton informed a family member about Sandra Halton’s passing but instructed them to “keep [their] f—ing mouth shut.” This relative expressed confusion as to why Randy Halton did not seek help, emphasizing that “he didn’t have to care for Sandra alone,” as he had been her caregiver for “several years.”
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According to the documents, Randy Halton reportedly acknowledged his mother “looked bad and horrible” but also stated that she “seemed fine.”
While Randy Halton has been booked on suspicion, formal charges have not yet been filed as the investigation continues. The Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office will now review the findings of the investigation to determine the next course of action.
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