July 30, 2013 - A male victim involved in the incident in which three men were found malnourished at a residence at 8646 Whitecastle on July 19 has died.
William Merle Greenawalt, 79, was pronounced dead on Thursday (July 25). Two other victims, Dean Cottingham, 59, and John Edward Padget, 64, have been released from the hospital into the care of Adult Protective Services.
Suspect Walter Renard Jones (b/m, DOB: 12-14-81) is charged with two counts of injury to the elderly - serious bodily injury in the 263rd State District Court.
A photo of suspect Jones is attached to this news release.
HPD Homicide Division Sergeant S. Murdock and Officer V. McLean reported:
Patrol officers responded to a call regarding persons being held against their will inside the residence at the above address. Officers obtained permission to enter the residence and found three males living without any level of care. Houston Fire Department personnel arrived on the scene and transported the men to the hospital. The three men claimed to have been misled by the suspect (Jones) into residing at the home in exchange for food and shelter. All three men claimed the suspect used force and coercion to keep them there for the purpose of monetary gain.
Jones was taken into custody at the scene and subsequently charged. The investigation is continuing.
Walter Renard Jones
UPDATE: KJS/VHS 7-30-13
JFC 7-20-13
Inc #089602313
For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.
