Pennsylvania Couple Accused of Living With Decomposing Body for 6 Months While Cashing Relative’s Social Security Checks, Police Say
PENNSYLVANIA — A husband and wife are facing charges after police discovered they had allegedly lived for six months with the decomposing body of the husband’s brother while continuing to cash his Social Security checks, according to newly released criminal filings.
Police Say Couple Allowed Brother’s Body to Decompose Inside Home
Authorities identified the suspects as 69-year-old James Bebout and 64-year-old Debbie Bebout, who are now charged with theft, criminal conspiracy, and abuse of a corpse. Police say the couple failed to report the death of 64-year-old Michael Bebout, whose remains were found inside a bedroom of their Greene County home in January.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by WPXI, officers arrived after James reported discovering his brother “stiff as a board” when he attempted to deliver breakfast. But when investigators entered the room, they found only skeletal remains lying on the bed.
Police Describe “House of Horror” Conditions
Greene Washington Regional Police Chief Will DeForte told WPXI that the home was one of the worst scenes he had witnessed in his 35-year law enforcement career. Officers encountered wall-to-wall dog feces, heavy hoarding conditions, and an “extraordinarily unpleasant” odor throughout the residence.
Investigators believe that Michael died of natural causes during the summer of 2024 — at least six months before his body was found. No foul play is suspected in his death.
Social Security Checks Allegedly Deposited for Months
Police say that during those six months, the Bebouts continued depositing Michael’s Social Security payments, totaling approximately $20,000, directly into their bank accounts. DeForte described the situation as a prolonged financial scheme conducted while the man’s body deteriorated mere feet away.
Lt. Nathan Ferree of the Greene Washington Regional Police Department told WTAE that Debbie Bebout had “pretended to take care of him” at times, even though Michael had long since passed away.
Arrest Warrants Issued; Couple Still in Area
Arrest warrants have been issued for James and Debbie Bebout, who are believed to still be in Washington County, Pennsylvania. Both face charges of theft, conspiracy, and abuse of a corpse.
Authorities continue to investigate the timeline of events and the couple’s alleged financial activity. Waldron News will provide updates as additional details are released.