Woman accused of not feeding, using zip ties to restrain relative with Down syndrome

WILSONVILLE, Ala. (WBRC/Gray News) - An Alabama woman is charged with neglecting and abusing a family member with intellectual disabilities who was entrusted in her care.

Cora June Morris is accused of using zip ties to restrain her relative to a table for “hours at a time, injuring her arm” and not feeding her to the point she became malnourished, according to court records.

The victim has Down syndrome, according to investigators.

This investigation began in September when the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Alabama Department of Human Resources about possible abuse.

A sheriff’s office spokesman said the Alabama Department of Human Resources has removed the victim from Morris’ care.

Deputies did not have an immediate update on her condition.

Morris is charged with abuse and neglect-physical injury under Alabama Code 38-9-7, which deals with the protection of aged adults or adults with a disability. The charge is a Class B felony and carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the case to determine how long the suspected abuse was happening and if more charges are necessary.

The Owens House also assisted in the investigation, according to deputies.