Houston Man Accused of Holding Disabled Wife Captive for Five Years
Houston investigators say a man kept his disabled wife locked inside a bedroom for five years. The case has shocked the local community.
Police arrested James Earl Johnson on Friday. He is 46 years old.
Authorities charged him with injury to a disabled person. He also faces a charge for abandoning or endangering a disabled individual.
Investigators say the alleged abuse happened inside a $1.1 million home in Houston.
According to court documents, Johnson kept his wife locked inside a bedroom. The couple also lived in the house with their adult children.
Victim Had Little Food or Contact
Documents say the woman had no phone access. In addition, she had very limited food.
Investigators claim Johnson gave her only one egg each day. Later, he sometimes provided a small dinner.
As a result, the woman lived under strict control for years.
However, the situation changed last Friday.
Johnson reportedly left his phone on a nightstand in the bedroom. Therefore, the victim used the device to call 911.
911 Call Led to Arrest
Court filings say Johnson discovered the call during the emergency conversation.
Investigators say he slapped the victim and carried her back to bed. He then ended the call with the dispatcher.
Despite that interruption, authorities later responded to the situation.
The woman, identified only as a 46-year-old disabled victim, remains hospitalized. Her adult son confirmed her condition to KTRK.
However, he did not share details about her disability.
Neighbors Unaware of Situation
Meanwhile, neighbors say they had no idea about the alleged abuse.
The property covers about 6,783 square feet. Yet no one realized the woman lived under captivity inside the large home.
Officials also confirmed a previous police visit to the residence.
Officers responded on November 16 last year. However, they left without filing a report.
Investigators say the victim told officers she and her children were told to remain quiet.
Court Case Moving Forward
After his arrest, Johnson posted a $50,000 bond. He must now stay away from the victim and the family home.
For now, he will stay with a nephew.
His next court appearance is scheduled for March 18.
If convicted, Johnson could face up to 20 years in prison. In addition, a court could order him to pay up to $10,000 in fines.
Records show Johnson works as a master electrician. Investigators say he earns about $18,000 per month.
Property records also show he bought the five-bedroom home in 2015.
Meanwhile, earlier family court records reveal the victim sought child support in 2001 and 2002. However, the outcome of those cases remains sealed.
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