A Springfield, Illinois woman allegedly concealed her elderly neighbor’s death for three years — while continuing to withdraw money from the dead woman’s bank accounts.
What Happened?
When family members of 86-year-old Lillie Prindle could not reach her in November 2025, they requested a welfare check. Officers from the Springfield Police Department arrived at Prindle’s home on Nov. 6, 2025, and made a disturbing discovery.
Prindle’s body was found sitting in a living room chair, covered with blankets. Police described the body as “mummified” and in an advanced state of decomposition.
Who Is the Suspect?
Gena English-Wheat, 59, was Prindle’s caregiver and next-door neighbor. She was charged with concealment of a death in February.
According to police, English-Wheat admitted she found Prindle dead in August 2022 — but told no one.
The Cover-Up
English-Wheat allegedly went to great lengths to make it appear Prindle was still alive:
- Paid Prindle’s utility bills
- Maintained her lawn
- Made regular ATM withdrawals from Prindle’s accounts
- Told neighbors Prindle was “staying with her niece”
Evidence found inside the home suggested nothing had changed since 2022 — including expired food and a calendar still showing that year.
The Money
Prindle was receiving Social Security and a state pension every month. Police obtained ATM surveillance footage showing English-Wheat making four withdrawals in October 2025 alone.
Authorities say English-Wheat allegedly took $130,000 from Prindle’s accounts. She has not yet been charged in connection with the alleged theft.
Where Is She Now?
English-Wheat was arrested Feb. 22 and later granted pretrial release. She has since missed multiple court appearances. A warrant has now been issued for her arrest.
Her next court date has not been announced.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
