ROCHESTER, MN – A 75-year-old Rochester man has been sentenced to more than three years in prison after failing to seek help or notify authorities for several days following the death of his wife, who was found deceased in their home’s bathtub.
Scott Douglas Loven entered a guilty plea in May to a count of criminal neglect, conceding that he knew or should have known that his inaction would lead to significant harm. As part of a negotiated plea deal, a previous second-degree manslaughter charge tied to culpable negligence was dropped.
Loven received a sentence of 41 months behind bars on Thursday. His conviction stems from events that unfolded in early May last year, when Rochester police discovered the lifeless body of Iris Jean Anderson, 93, at the couple’s northwest home, approximately 85 miles from Minneapolis.
Authorities responded to the residence on May 8, 2023, after a chain of communications brought the situation to light. According to court documents, it wasn’t Loven but rather a family pastor who led to the eventual police response. The pastor, during a routine visit, learned of Anderson’s death from Loven but initially believed family members had been notified. When Anderson’s daughter was eventually told about her mother’s death by the pastor, she urged him to return to the home. That prompted further concern, and law enforcement intervened soon after.
The medical examiner later ruled Anderson’s death a homicide, attributing the cause to a gastrointestinal hemorrhage resulting from extended immobility due to blunt force injuries. Examination further revealed she suffered a fractured shoulder, several contusions, and a scalp laceration.
Investigators say Loven, during initial questioning, told them he could not remember the precise date his wife passed away because he had been drinking heavily since the incident. Police later determined Anderson likely died on May 4, 2023, leaving several days unaccounted for before her death was reported.
Court records show Loven, a retired nurse, recounted that Anderson, who suffered from dementia and other age-related ailments, had experienced a fall in the bathroom. He attempted to help but was unable to move her, he said, and after an initial attempt, he also fell. Loven admitted Anderson asked him to take her to the hospital, but he decided against it, citing concerns about her weight and the difficulty of transporting her.
Despite having a functioning phone in the home, Loven did not call 911 or anyone else for assistance. He stated that he became overwhelmed and instead turned to alcohol as he realized her condition was worsening.
When pressed further by officers, Loven’s recounting of the events shifted at times, but he maintained that he was unable to render adequate aid or call for help. Anderson’s obituary described her as an independent and compassionate woman, remembered for her intellect, faith, and generosity.
Authorities emphasized that Loven’s position as the primary caregiver made his actions particularly egregious. The case underlines issues surrounding elder care, dementia, and the profound responsibilities that fall on those caring for vulnerable loved ones.
Loven is serving his sentence in state prison. The case remains a somber reminder of the consequences that can arise when help is not sought in medical emergencies involving dependent family members.