Daughter neglects elderly mother, leaving her in deplorable condition

A woman from Oklahoma was detained following allegations of mistreating her elderly mother and disrespecting her deceased body in a home crowded with animals and unsanitary conditions, according to law enforcement in the state.

Shannon Solomon-Webb, age 38, faces accusations of caregiver misconduct, violation of a human body, and animal abuse, as per the court documents from Wagoner County reviewed by Law&Crime.

Authorities took her into custody on April 9, as indicated by the court documents. She is not currently an inmate at the county detention facility.

The defendant's spouse alerted 911 about her mother's demise, as stated in a probable cause affidavit obtained by the Tulsa-based CBS affiliate KOTV.

Nevertheless, investigators believe the report was made significantly late.

"Upon entry through the front door, immediately looking to the right, you can't help but notice," remarked Wagoner Police Department Lt. Det. Clarence Collins. "It's evident there's a person there on the bed."

Inside the house, approximately 20 dogs of varying ages were present, authorities reported. The animals were supposedly residing in their own mess.

The defendant argued with her mother over moving to an assisted living facility, based on police reports. 

Consequently, Solomon-Webb expressed the desire to "honor her wishes," choosing to "limit the time at her home," as outlined in the legal complaint.

The mother had lupus and struggled with breathing, according to law enforcement. When queried by investigators if she and her spouse were responsible for the elderly woman’s health, well-being, and everyday needs, the defendant reportedly responded, "Yes, accurately, we're her caregivers," as per the affidavit.

Investigators were disappointed with the apparent lack of adequate care.

"There was a microwave positioned on the bed, accompanied by instant meals and pot pies requiring microwaving, and some water," Collins elaborated to KOTV.

As of now, the exact date of the elderly woman’s death remains undetermined.

The state's medical examiner indicated that the decomposition level suggested the woman had been deceased for at least a week. 

Collins, however, mentioned to the television station his belief that she may have been dead for about a month before the 911 call was initiated.

"Ms. Solomon had decomposed to such an extent that it resembled a mummy from ancient times," the detective described. 

"Her skin was so tanned and leathery. It’s difficult to express other than saying she resembled an ancient mummy minus the wrappings."

Currently, the dogs and younger animals are held as evidence. The law enforcement agency is making efforts to secure legal ownership to offer them for adoption.

"It's quite challenging," Collins shared. "Having mothers ourselves, none of us could ever wish for this treatment. It's unimaginable to think someone would treat their own mother this way."

The defendant's spouse was also taken into custody alongside her. Being a member of the Cherokee Nation, it falls upon tribal authorities to decide if charges, if any, must be pursued.

Solomon-Webb was released on bond over the past weekend. Her next court appearance for arraignment is scheduled for May 6.