Daughter Left 82-Year-Old Mother in Severe Bedsores, Leading to Her Death, Authorities Say

A Tragic Case of Elder Neglect

A 54-year-old woman from Georgia has been indicted on a felony murder charge after her elderly and disabled mother was found in a severe state of neglect. The 82-year-old, Lillie Sapp, was discovered stuck to her mattress due to untreated bedsores during a welfare check in December 2024. This tragic incident has led to serious legal consequences for Tyrossale Peak, who is now facing charges of felony murder and neglect of a disabled adult.

Peak was arraigned in Richmond County following an indictment earlier this month. She was taken into custody after a grand jury issued a warrant for her arrest in July. The case has drawn attention due to the shocking conditions in which Sapp was found, leading to her eventual death three weeks later.

Discovery of Neglect

Deputies responded to Peak's home on Dec. 30, 2024, in the 2900 block of Rollingwood Drive in Augusta. They were called after receiving a tip about Sapp’s well-being. Upon arrival, officers reportedly found Sapp in bed with her skin stuck to the mattress, accompanied by a strong smell of bodily fluids and the presence of roaches. The 82-year-old appeared incoherent, and authorities had to call in emergency workers and firefighters to assist with her removal. The process involved cutting away part of the mattress, and Sapp was transported to Wellstar MCG Health, where she was initially listed as stable.

According to local reports, Sapp passed away three weeks after being found in that condition. The indictment against Peak states that she "willfully deprived" her mother of health care and shelter, endangering her well-being. The documents allege that Sapp's wounds, along with improper bedding practices—such as sheets covered in feces and bugs—led to deadly infections in her lungs and bones.

Background and Previous Care

Local media reported that Sapp was originally in hospice care but was removed in June and placed in Peak’s home for unknown reasons. According to the arrest report, Peak claimed that Sapp had "lost a bit of weight but she was fine." She also stated that the last time her mother saw a medical professional was in June when she was removed from hospice.

Peak told police and EMS that she fed Sapp every morning and ensured she drank two to three Ensures a day. However, during the investigation, officers noted that the kitchen was infested with roaches, and the sink was overflowing with dirty dishes. These findings raised concerns about the living conditions and the level of care provided to Sapp.

Legal Consequences

Authorities claim that Peak personally discontinued her mother's hospice care and failed to provide adequate treatment, fluids, and nutrition. This neglect is considered a form of elder abuse. The exact reason for Sapp's initial placement in hospice remains unclear, but the circumstances surrounding her care have led to serious legal repercussions for Peak.

The case has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of caregivers and the importance of proper oversight for vulnerable individuals. As the legal proceedings continue, the tragic outcome serves as a reminder of the critical need for compassion and accountability in elder care.