64-year-old woman, who hit her older wheelchair-bound sister in the head after the argument they had escalated and then wrapped her arms around her neck trying to choke her, was arrested
Florida – In a disturbing incident in Florida, a 64-year-old woman, identified as V. Cappola, was arrested for physically attacking her older wheelchair-bound sister in an incident that left the victim in severe distress and with visible injuries. The younger sister, Cappola, faces serious charges, including abuse of an elderly adult, domestic battery by strangulation, and simple battery, according to court records. These charges stem from a violent altercation that took place at the elder sister’s home last week.
Law enforcement officers responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic disturbance at the residence. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the older sister, who described a harrowing attack by her younger sibling. According to a probable cause affidavit, the conflict escalated quickly and violently.
The victim said that Cappola first struck her in the head with a cellphone. The assault didn’t stop there. The affidavit states that immediately following the cellphone strike, Cappola pushed her older sister, still in her wheelchair, into a dresser. The violent behavior continued when Cappola allegedly wrapped her hands around the victim’s neck, applying pressure that restricted her ability to breathe. The victim reportedly experienced significant difficulty breathing during this strangulation attempt.
A neighbor who heard the victim crying for help intervened and entered the home. The witness saw Cappola with her arms tightly wrapped around the older sister’s neck. Attempting to protect the victim, the neighbor shielded her with her body. In response, Cappola reportedly pulled the neighbor’s hair. The neighbor chose not to press charges, but their intervention was crucial in stopping the attack.
Some parts of the official court documents are redacted to protect the victim’s privacy, leaving a few details unclear. However, it is known that after the attack, the defendant forced the victim to leave the residence and locked the door behind her. The victim expressed fear for her safety and sought help from the authorities. Visible scratches were noted on the victim’s left shoulder, but no marks were seen on her neck at the time of the investigation. Cappola was read her rights and questioned by authorities. She admitted to some of the allegations while denying others. Following her arrest, Cappola was held in the county jail with bond set at $11,000. She is currently represented by a public defender. She appeared in court for the first time shortly after her arrest and has upcoming hearings scheduled for June 20 and July 17.
This case highlights the tragic nature of domestic violence, especially when it involves vulnerable elderly individuals who rely on others for care. The allegations against Cappola, if proven, reveal a disturbing level of aggression against a family member already facing mobility challenges. The legal system will now determine her fate as the investigation continues. The community and authorities remain watchful as this case unfolds, hoping justice is served for the older sister who suffered such a violent ordeal.
