Caretaker facing manslaughter charges waives prelim hearing

The woman charged with manslaughter in connection to the death of a woman she was paid to take care of at all times waived her preliminary hearing Thursday.

Sherri Gail Coomer, 53, is charged with second-degree manslaughter in connection with the Oct. 23 death of 80-year-old Patricia Joan Langston.

Coomer was arrested last month after a four-month investigation found that she was allegedly negligent while watching Langston. Langston died of a sepsis infection.

Langston had a history of medical problems and had employed Coomer to stay with her 24 hours a day, seven days a week, according to the probable-cause statement filed in the case. Coomer lived with Langston and was paid to groom and bathe her, as well as ensure she took her medication and went to doctors' appointments.

An autopsy revealed that Langston had several bedsores. Some of the bedsores were infested with maggots, according to the probable-cause statement. Authorities say Coomer's improper care contributed to Langston's death from infection.

Coomer will be arraigned Feb. 27.

Pertinent address:

100 Court St., Jackson, Mo.