An Arizona man has been arrested after police say his disabled adult son was left in a bathtub for nearly two months, where authorities discovered him in an extremely deteriorated physical condition. Investigators allege the prolonged neglect left the 31-year-old man severely malnourished, covered in wounds, and suffering injuries that could have permanent consequences. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the disturbing condition in which officers found the victim and the family’s differing accounts of what led to the tragedy.
Police Respond to Disturbing Welfare Call
According to the Mesa Police Department, officers responded shortly before 10 p.m. on June 29 to a residence near Gilbert Road and Pueblo Avenue in Mesa, Arizona, after receiving a report that a disabled adult had been confined to a bathtub for several weeks.
When officers entered the home’s bathroom, they immediately noticed what court documents described as a powerful odor resembling rotting flesh and human waste. Inside the bathtub, they found 31-year-old Hunter Shimkus lying in an alarming state.
Authorities reported that the victim appeared “extremely emaciated,” with virtually no muscle tissue remaining. Officers observed numerous open, oozing sores covering his body, while one of his legs appeared severely deformed and bent at an unnatural 90-degree angle. Small ropes were reportedly attached around his right leg, and investigators described his physical condition as among the worst they had encountered.
Victim Suffers From Serious Medical Condition
Nerve Disease Left Him Unable to Walk
Court records state that Hunter Shimkus suffers from a nerve disease that prevents him from walking and significantly limits the use of his hands.
Because of his medical condition, investigators determined he was considered a vulnerable adult who relied heavily on others for care. Police identified his father, 52-year-old Melvin Shimkus, as his primary caregiver over the previous year.
Father Accused of Severe Neglect
Police Say Caregiver Failed to Obtain Medical Treatment
Investigators allege that despite his son’s worsening condition, Melvin Shimkus failed to obtain necessary medical care.
During his interview with officers, Shimkus reportedly claimed he had placed Hunter in the bathtub only about one week earlier. He also told police that when he checked on his son that day, he noticed one of Hunter’s legs had become bent in the wrong direction.
According to court documents, Shimkus said he repeatedly offered to take his son to the hospital but claimed Hunter refused medical treatment each time.
Family Member Gives Different Timeline
Relative Says Victim Had Been in Tub Since Mid-May
Police say another family member living in the home disputed the father’s version of events.
That relative reportedly told investigators Hunter had actually been in the bathtub since May 16, meaning he had remained there for approximately seven weeks—nearly two months—before police were called.
The family member said May 16 was also the last time emergency responders had visited the home. At that time, Hunter allegedly refused medical care and remained in the bathtub afterward.
Aunt Says Family Tried to Help
Family Claims Hunter Repeatedly Refused Medical Care
Hunter’s aunt, Carol Scofield, who also lived in the residence, publicly defended the family after the arrest.
According to Scofield, relatives repeatedly attempted to persuade Hunter to seek medical attention for his condition. She said emergency responders had also previously visited the home, but because Hunter was an adult capable of making his own decisions, paramedics could not force treatment after he refused care.
Scofield stated that everyone in the household tried convincing Hunter to go to the hospital, but he consistently declined. She also maintained that Melvin Shimkus had been caring for his son and expressed her belief that his arrest was unjustified.
Prosecutors Describe Extreme Neglect
Injuries May Be Permanent
During Melvin Shimkus’ initial court appearance, prosecutors described the victim’s condition as evidence of severe neglect.
According to statements presented in court, investigators believe the prolonged lack of proper care caused significant injuries that could be permanent.
Authorities emphasized that Hunter’s extensive wounds, severe malnutrition, and skeletal appearance suggested he had gone without adequate medical intervention for an extended period.
Victim Hospitalized for Emergency Treatment
Following the discovery, emergency personnel transported Hunter Shimkus to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Officials have not publicly released detailed information about his recovery or long-term prognosis. However, prosecutors indicated the injuries he suffered may have lasting consequences because of the severity of the alleged neglect.
Criminal Charge Against Father
Vulnerable Adult Abuse Allegation
Melvin Shimkus was arrested and booked into the Maricopa County jail on one count of vulnerable adult abuse.
Following his initial appearance in court, a judge set his bond at $12,000. The charge stems from investigators’ allegation that, as his son’s primary caregiver, he failed to provide adequate care and medical assistance while Hunter’s condition deteriorated over several weeks.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The Mesa Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case. Detectives are reviewing statements from family members, medical evidence, and the timeline leading up to Hunter Shimkus’ hospitalization.
Authorities have not announced whether additional charges or arrests will follow as investigators continue gathering evidence regarding the care provided inside the home.
