New Braunfels, TX – A 54-year-old caregiver has been sentenced to 25 years in a state correctional facility for the severe abuse and neglect of the disabled woman she was employed to care for. Brandy Marie Doster pleaded guilty to one count of injury to a disabled individual causing serious bodily injury.
The investigation into Doster began on May 21 when an emergency call led police to the victim’s body in a parked car. Doster’s estranged daughter reported her mother arrived at her home claiming an accident had occurred, alleging the victim was “sleeping” in the backseat.
Upon arriving at the victim’s residence, Doster’s daughter found the victim’s body wrapped in an emergency blanket. The investigation revealed Doster, a longtime family friend, had been hired on a full-time basis following the victim’s traumatic brain injury, which caused frequent seizures. While Doster had health care experience, she was not a licensed caregiver in Texas.
Initially, the victim’s family trusted Doster completely, providing her a $70,000 salary and allowing her access to the victim’s home and vehicle. Over time, Doster isolated the victim and limited family contact, claiming it was necessary for the victim’s health.
Doster’s daughter witnessed her mother abuse the victim but felt powerless to intervene. The daughter reported seeing Doster tie the victim’s hands and feet to furniture, hit her, and use a sock to muffle her screams.
During the initial police interview, Doster claimed to have memory issues, stating she “blacked out” on the night the victim died. After being confronted with medical evidence, Doster changed her story, admitting knowledge of the victim’s broken arm before her death.
The victim’s cause of death was determined to be fatal sepsis due to untreated injuries. Doster eventually acknowledged she had delayed seeking medical help, intending to drop off her dog in San Antonio despite passing multiple hospitals en route.
Doster admitted to restraining the victim for what she claimed was the victim’s safety. Investigators presented extensive evidence of ongoing abuse and neglect, highlighting a pattern of disregard for the victim’s well-being.
