Judge rips state for bedridden mom's death

PONTIAC, Oct. 28, 2009 (AP): A Michigan judge has blasted state caseworkers for not helping prevent the death of a 63-year-old Southfield woman who died of bedsores and neglect in 2007.

Oakland County Circuit Judge Nanci Grant on Tuesday expressed frustration and shock that Department of Human Services workers had four separate contacts with Stephanie Cooper about the condition of her mother, Agnes.

DHS workers found Agnes Cooper living in filthy conditions and covered in sores, but the agency took no action. Her death was ruled a homicide.

Stephanie Cooper pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter and faced up to five years in prison. The judge gave her no jail time and said the DHS is ``equally culpable.''

A message seeking comment was left with the state.