A husband and son have been jailed after being convicted of manslaughter after level of care for their wife and mother “was woefully short of the most basic standards expected.”

The sentencing follows an investigation into 71-year-old Dorothy Morgan’s care following her admission into hospital where she later died on the February, 3, 2021.

Robert Morgan, 61, was sentenced to three years and David Holyoak, 53, was sentenced to two years eight months at Carlisle Crown Court on March 25, 2024

Both were found guilty following a trial on the February 19.

Detective Superintendent Matt Scott, who led the investigation into Dorothy’s’ death, said: “Robert and David had a clear duty of care towards Dorothy, and it was clear from her condition and the state of their home that the level of care afforded to Dorothy was woefully short of the most basic standards expected.

“She was wholly dependent on those family members closest to her for food, water and the most basic of care.

“Dorothy had limited mobility and was not able to move from the sofa.

“She was left with a bucket next to the sofa as a toilet, which Dorothy was unable to use in the days leading up to her admission to hospital.

“In interview they both said there were no excuses for the condition in which Dorothy was left, and that what little care they did provide was not enough.

“Despite claims of wanting to respect Dorothy’s wishes of not getting medical help they ignored the severity of her condition which ultimately led to her death.

“I welcome the verdict and today’s sentences and want to be clear, if you have taken on a duty to protect and care for a person who is elderly, vulnerable and in need of support, then ensure you fulfil the duty you have accepted.

“The elderly in our community deserve respect and support. Abuse and gross neglect such as this case shows, will not go unchecked.’’

The court heard that on January 25, 2021, Robert Morgan, Dorothy’s husband called 999 requesting an ambulance for this wife due to her deteriorating condition which led to her admission to West Cumberland Hospital.

A day later on January 26, Cumbria Police were brought in by medical staff over concerns of neglect, due to Dorothy’s poor physical state.

An expert witness concluded that prior to her admission Dorothy had spent at least three weeks possibly six weeks in the same position resulting in pressure ulcerations also known as bed sores of increasing severity before her husband Robert, noted her impaired level of consciousness.

Dorothy also had not had adequate fluids for 7-10 days leaving her severely dehydrated leading to delirium and leaving her drowsy two to three days before her husband called 999. 

Following her admission doctors carried out tests, diagnosing her with primary lung cancer, a severe infection from the varying pressure sores and kidney failure.