A Florida woman who says she strangled her elderly mother in a mercy killing now faces first-degree murder charges.
Martha Jo Blake, 66, served as caregiver to her mother, Patricia Blake, 97, The Union Bulletin reported that Martha Jo Blake is accused of strangling her mother the day after Christmas.
According to the newspaper, Blake told police that her mother was struggling wth health issues and that the pair had discussed how to end her mother's life.
Police were called to the home at 8 a.m. on Dec. 26. The newspaper reported that Patricia Blake was found dead in bed, lying on her back with sheets over her body.
WPBF-25 reported that a family member told them that Patricia Blake had been suffering from Parkinson's disease and other medical issues. However, the family member also said she was alert and mobile.
The Union Bulletin reported that deputies at the home found it suspicious that Martha Jo would not leave her mother's side. They also noted that Patricia Blake's face was discolored and there were circular marks on her neck.
An autopsy later confirmed that the cause of death was strangulation.
WPBF-25 reported that Martha Jo Blake told investigators that she had discussed a "death with dignity" assisted suicide option in Maine 18 months ago. She told police the request was rejected because Patricia's illness wasn't terminal.
"Martha told me, Patricia has told her that she did not want to live, and was told her this many times," the arrest report reads according to the station.
