Bradenton man left elderly person alone for days, cops say. He says ‘he needed a break’

A 61-year-old Manatee County man is being charged with elderly abuse after leaving the person he was supposed be taking care of alone for two days, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say Patrick Griffith told the victim he was going to the store but never returned. Someone known to the victim realized that Griffith had been gone for two days and called 911.

The victim’s age, address and relationship to Griffith were redacted from the report.

According to the arrest warrant dated March 28, deputies responded to a mobile home park on Dec. 16 and found the victim in a chair soaked in feces and urine.

The victim had suffered a stroke five years ago and was unable to get out of the chair without help, deputies say.

The victim was unable to get food, water or medication while Griffith was gone, the report states.

The victim was transported to the hospital, suffering from severe dehydration.

According to the arrest warrant, Griffith would disappear for days at a time between April and December of last year, claiming, “He needed a break.”

Probable cause was developed over the course of the investigation and the arrest warrant was issued.

Griffith was booked into the Manatee County jail on March 28. He is charged with felony abuse/neglect of an elderly and disabled adult. Griffith posted a $1,000 bond and was released on Tuesday pending a future court date.

This story was originally published April 2, 2020 at 11:28 AM.