Clinton caretaker pleads guilty to elder abuse after dependent adult dies malnourished, covered in sores
CLINTON, Iowa (KWQC) - A Clinton man has pleaded guilty to dependent adult abuse after an elderly man in his care died severely malnourished and covered in sores.
Justin Babers pleaded guilty Wednesday to intentional or reckless dependent adult abuse by a caretaker causing injury, an aggravated misdemeanor. He was originally charged with a Class B felony for abuse resulting in death, to which he had initially pleaded not guilty.
The victim, 76-year-old Kenneth Flaugh, weighed just 102 pounds when he died on Aug. 7, 2025. Officials said malnutrition, bronchial pneumonia, and a lung mass contributed to his death.
In a written plea, Babers admitted to failing the man in his care:
“I recklessly failed to provide adequate hygiene, supervision and care necessary to maintain his health,” Babers wrote. “As a result of my acts or omissions, Kenneth suffered lesions and sores.”
Babers faces up to two years in prison and fines of up to $8,540. Sentencing is set for Dec. 3 at the Clinton County Courthouse.
Angelina Babers was also charged in the death.
A charge of dependent adult abuse was dismissed by a judge, but Angelina Babers still faces intentional or reckless dependent adult abuse.
She was to be in court Wednesday but was granted a continuance. Her next hearing is Dec. 9.
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