Chesterfield mother charged with abuse and neglect in death of 28-year-old son with autism

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Court documents have revealed disturbing new details about a Chesterfield mother charged in the death of her 28-year-old son who had autism.

Sixty-year-old Manisha Nath is behind bars, she's been charged with abuse and neglect of a vulnerable adult, resulting in death.

On Wednesday, Oct. 22, Chesterfield Police said they were called to Nath's home on Woods Walk Lane in Midlothian. When officers arrived, her son, Somak Nath was suffering from cardiac arrest and was taken to a hospital where he died.

The next day, police say the Medical Examiner's Office alerted officers of possible signs of abuse and neglect regarding Somak's physical condition.

According to a criminal complaint, "Somak was reported to be only 65 pounds, indicating possible [mal]nourishment, missing most of his top teeth, and his bottom teeth were rotted."

The complaint also said that he had sores and was covered in grime, indicating that he might not have bathed for some time.

Police said his mother was his caretaker, as he was unable to care for himself. A search warrant was executed on Nath's home where police made a disturbing discovery.

"Police found little to no food in the kitchen, and an excessive amount of black mold in the residence," a detective wrote. "There was also a lack of running water and Manisha told police she would just give Somak a bucket of water and mug to bathe himself."

Neighbors told 8News that Somak would normally be seen sitting on the porch, but over the last year they only saw him once or twice.

They said they were stunned by what police found and believe Manisha may have had mental health struggles. 

She is currently being held without bond in Chesterfield County Jail. Police said additional charges may be filed later.

She made her first appearance at Chesterfield Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court on Friday, Oct 24. Her next court appearance is set for Nov. 18.