Former caregiver pleads not guilty to manslaughter

The Patton, Mo., woman charged with manslaughter in connection to the death of a woman she was paid to take care of pleaded not guilty Monday.

Sherrie 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. Langston died of a sepsis infection.

Sherrie Gail Coomer

Coomer's attorney, Patrick McMenamin, declined to comment on the case.

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 back in court March 26.

Pertinent address:

100 Court St., Jackson, MO