Separate trials for couple in neglect case

MOSCOW (AP) - An Idaho couple accused of neglecting a 67-year-old man in their care - who later died of severe malnutrition - will be tried separately.

Second District Judge John R. Stegner on Wednesday agreed with prosecutors to arrange separate trials for Charles Wright, 24, and Lindsey Winter, 21. They're charged with abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult, exploitation of a vulnerable adult and fraudulently obtaining welfare or public assistance. They have pleaded not guilty.

Lee O. Pohrman died Nov. 3, 2013, at the Gritman Medical Center after being taken earlier that day from the couple's home. An autopsy listed malnutrition and starvation as the cause.

Pohrman had been living at Good Samaritan Village, a senior living and care center, after suffering a stroke, partial paralysis, chronic high blood pressure and other ailments. He moved from the assisted care facility into the care of Wright and Winter against caretakers' recommendations, said Francis Spain, Pohrman's primary care provider from January 2009 to April 2011, said.