A shocking domestic incident unfolded in Florida last week, leading to the arrest of 64-year-old Vikki Beth Cappola. Authorities say the woman violently assaulted her older sister, who is confined to a wheelchair, at the victim’s home on May 21. The disturbing allegations have now resulted in Cappola facing serious criminal charges.
According to Palm Beach County court records, Cappola is being charged with abuse of an elderly adult, domestic battery by strangulation, and simple battery. The incident came to light after sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call about a disturbance at the sister’s residence.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they encountered a visibly shaken elderly woman who told officers her younger sister had physically assaulted her during a heated dispute.
Court documents, although redacted in compliance with Florida’s privacy law, outline a harrowing sequence of events. The older sister alleged that during the altercation, Cappola first struck her in the head with a cell phone. The violence allegedly escalated when Cappola pushed the victim, still seated in her wheelchair into a nearby dresser.
Deputies say the violence didn’t stop there. According to the affidavit, Cappola then allegedly wrapped her hands around her sister’s neck and began choking her. The victim reportedly told police that she experienced breathing difficulties during the attack.
Authorities confirmed the account through a neighbor who heard cries for help coming from the home. The neighbor said she rushed in to find Cappola with her arms around the victim’s neck. Acting quickly, the neighbor shielded the older woman with her body to stop the assault, but was met with aggression. Cappola allegedly responded by pulling the neighbor’s hair.
The neighbor, however, declined to press charges against Cappola.
The report adds that following the incident, the victim was expelled from her own residence. She was later interviewed by officers and expressed fear for her safety. Officials observed visible injuries on her shoulder, though no neck marks were noted.
Following her arrest, Cappola was booked into the Palm Beach County Jail and held on an $11,000 bond. After being read her Miranda rights, she allegedly confessed to parts of the incident while denying other claims made against her.
The court has assigned her a public defender. She had her initial court appearance this week and is scheduled to return to court on June 20, with a follow-up hearing set for July 17.
As the investigation continues, local authorities and social services are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly victim.
