Two Arrested in Washington Co. For Felony Neglect

Charges came after the death of a man in their care was ruled a homicide.

Photos Courtesy of Indiana State Police

(Washington, Co.) - Two caretakers were arrested Tuesday on felony neglect charges after the death of a man in their care was ruled a homicide. 

Indiana State Police Detective Travis Baker was contacted on February 13, 2020, from a concerned family member after the death of Danny D. Harris. Harris, who was 68 at the time of his death, was incapable of caring for himself due to medical and mental issues. 

At the time of his death, Harris was in the care of Patricia A. Campbell and Russell Cartuyvelles, whom Harris paid for both room and care. The residence is not a licensed care facility and neither Campbell nor Russell are licensed care providers.

The cause of Harris's death from the autopsy report was ruled a homicide due to the lack of required medical care. Detective Baker continued the investigation after requesting a search warrant for the residence and conducting numerous interviews. Investigators from Adult Protective Services also assisted in the investigation along with other Troopers, ISP detectives, and Crime Scene Technicians.

Detective Baker turned his findings over to the Washington County Prosecutor's Office. Then on Tuesday, March 4, both Campbell and Cartuyvelles were arrested at their home in Perkin.