SANTA ROSA COUNTY

SHERIFF'S OFFICE

Sheriff Wendell Hall

Two Arrested for Felony Neglect of the Elderly

Two Milton residents have been arrested for felony neglect of an elderly person resulting in great bodily harm. Andreau Ritz (W/F, 46 years old) and William Pegel (W/M, 49 years old) both lived with an 88 year old elderly man in which they were in charge of his care. The elderly man, who is not being identified, was bed ridden, and could not walk on his own. The investigation began when deputies received a call stating that the elderly man had been left alone for long periods of time with no care. When deputies responded to the victim's location on Howard Avenue , Milton , they found the victim in a horrific state. It was apparent that the victim suffered from numerous infected wounds, malnutrition, severe bedsores, and dehydration. The victim was immediately transported to the hospital for medical treatment. Medical personnel stated that if the victim had not received immediate medical care, he would have died. The investigation revealed that there were numerous wounds at various stages of healing which indicated that the neglect occurred over a lengthy period of time. Both suspects were arrested on the below mentioned charges. The victim's condition is improving, although he remains under medical treatment. Both subjects were arrested today and are being held at the Santa Rosa County Jail. Photographs of both suspects are not available at the time of this release. As soon as they are available, they will be sent.

SUSPECTS:

William Robert Pegel, W/M, 49 years old

6400 Block of Howard Avenue , Milton , FL ($100,000.00 Bond)

Andreau Von Ritz, W/F, 46 years old

6400 Block of Howard Avenue , Milton , FL ($50,000.00 Bond)

CHARGE:

Neglect of the Elderly with Great Bodily Harm, 2 nd degree felony

Press Release By:

Sgt. Scott Haines

Media Relations Unit

(850) 981-2136 or shaines@srso.net