Rensselaer, IN – A welfare check in Rensselaer earlier this year has led to felony neglect charges and an ongoing search for a woman accused of failing to properly care for a dependent adult, according to local authorities.
According to the Rensselaer Police Department, officers responded on Jan. 31, 2026, to a residence in the 100 block of West Grace Street after receiving concerns about living conditions inside the home. The caller requested an investigation involving individuals residing at the residence, including a 22-year-old autistic man who reportedly was unable to care for himself independently.
Police said officers responding with the Indiana Department of Child Services observed what they described as unsanitary living conditions throughout the residence.
During the investigation, officers located the 22-year-old man and determined he required immediate medical attention. Authorities alleged he appeared severely malnourished and was transported to a Lafayette-area hospital for treatment.
Investigators later forwarded findings to prosecutors, and arrest warrants were issued for two individuals.
Police said Matthew Hyatt, 31, was arrested June 18 and booked into the Jasper County Jail on a charge of failing to report victimization, a Class B misdemeanor.
Authorities also allege Beth Foley, 44, faces two counts of neglect of a dependent, including Level 5 and Level 6 felony charges. Police say Foley remains wanted, and her whereabouts are currently unknown.
The Rensselaer Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding Foley’s location to contact investigators at 219-866-7602. Anonymous tips are also accepted.
All charges are allegations, and all individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
