Visalia Authorities Arrest Two in Connection with Elder Abuse and Child Neglect Investigation
Visalia, California – In response to a distress call at Kaweah Health Medical Center on March 25, 2024, Visalia Police Department officers were summoned to aid a 52-year-old woman found in a severely emaciated and medically compromised state. Following the report, patrol units swiftly arrived at the medical facility and promptly engaged the assistance of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the woman had been under the care of one of her adult daughters. Detectives traced the residence where the victim had been residing to the 600 block of North Garden Street in Visalia. A search warrant was swiftly obtained for the premises.
Upon entering the residence, law enforcement officers encountered 34-year-old Cecilia Colleen Rodriguez, 61-year-old Gregory Paul Chavez, and four juveniles ranging from 4 to 15 years old. The living conditions inside were described as deplorable, marked by the presence of insects, fecal matter, and refuse strewn throughout the home.
Given the hazardous environment, additional agencies, including Adult Protective Services, Child Welfare Services, and Code Enforcement, were summoned to the scene. The four children were subsequently placed under the care of Child Welfare Services.
The victim, now stabilized, is currently receiving medical attention. Rodriguez and Chavez, in connection with the dire circumstances observed at the residence, were arrested and charged with Elder Abuse, Child Neglect, and Abuse.
For further information or any pertinent leads related to the case, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Visalia Police Department.
