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Woman Charged with Manslaughter in Elder Abuse Case


Published: 11/13/2013

For More Information Contact:

Captain John Watterson
(845) 486-3860                   

The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of Marilyn L. Gerathy, age 78 of Poughquag NY, in connection with the death of her aunt who she had been living with and caring for.

Sheriff’s Deputies along with EMS responded to 21 Palmer Circle in Poughquag on 5/12/13 for a report of a person who had been injured, possibly from an assault. Upon arrival it was discovered that Dorothy Howie (age 89) had suffered numerous injuries from an apparent assault, including bruising over a large portion of her body. Ms. Howie was transported to Vassar Hospital, where she remained until her death on 5/21/13.

Ms. Gerathy is accused of causing her aunt’s death by assaulting her and then leaving her unattended for several hours. The investigation was conducted by the Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office, and on 10/30/13 a Grand Jury Indictment was filed against Ms. Gerathy. Ms. Gerathy was then arrested pursuant to the indictment, which charges her with the following:

  • Manslaughter 2nd degree: Class C Felony
  • Assault 2nd degree: Class D Felony
  • Endangering the welfare of a vulnerable elderly person: Class D Felony

Ms. Gerathy was arraigned before Dutchess County Court and released on her own recognizance. As in any other criminal case the charges described above are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.