Caregiver charged after missing elderly woman found safe in Chadbourn

CHADBOURN, NC (WWAY) — A caregiver has been charged after deputies found a missing elderly woman who had wandered from a home on Hunter Avenue, according to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the area on Tuesday after receiving a report of a missing woman. She was located safely at a nearby residence and assisted back to family members. According to the sheriff’s office, deputies noted that she appeared distressed and had difficulty walking without help.

While on scene, deputies spoke with relatives who said they were concerned about her ongoing care and reported that she had wandered away from the residence multiple times in the past. According to the sheriff’s office, similar calls had been made to the home previously, and the Department of Social Services already had an active investigation into the situation.

After reviewing the circumstances, deputies determined that the woman’s caregiver, Marshall Gaskins, failed to take adequate steps to keep her safe. Gaskins was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Columbus County Detention Center.

A magistrate found probable cause for the charge of neglect of a disabled or elderly person with injury and issued a magistrate’s order. Gaskins received a $5,000 secured bond.