A 45-year-old Columbia woman, Nancy Bass Ledger, was arrested Thursday afternoon by the Columbia Police Department for the second-degree murder of Joseph Woodward, who died at the age of 39 in 2021.
Ledger worked as Woodward’s caregiver as Woodward was a paraplegic with limited mobility, according to the CPD. Det. Jonathon Martin said when the case was investigated, the department found that Woodward was malnourished and showed several signs of neglect.
“We’re taking a look at all cases from the past seven years,” Martin said. “We’re making sure they’re good, which is something Chief (Adrien) Fortenberry wanted us to do. This one rose to the top.”
Fortenberry said in a press release that the CPD has worked tirelessly to seek justice for Woodward and his family.
"This arrest marks a significant step forward in resolving this tragic case," Fortenberry said. "We hope this brings some measure of closure to those affected by this crime."
Ledger was denied bond and is currently in custody at the Marion County Regional Correctional Facility. She will be arraigned in 48 hours.
