New Jersey Man Lived With His Dead Younger Sister’s Body For A ‘Prolonged Period Of Time,’ Police Say

An elderly New Jersey man was accused of concealing his younger sister’s death after police discovered her body while conducting a wellbeing check at his home.

Around 1 p.m. on Feb. 13, police officers responded to the residence of Mark Winters, 76, in Westwood, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said.

Winters met officers at the front door and allowed them to enter.

Once inside the house, officers located the remains of Joan Winters, 70, who had lived there with her brother.

After officers made the grisly discovery, Winters allegedly became confrontational and assaulted them, according to police.

Police said they believe Winters allegedly concealed his sister’s remains for a “prolonged period of time” in the home, though it is unclear how long ago she died.

An autopsy was conducted on Feb. 14 and results are pending.

Prosecutors said preliminary information indicated the death does not appear to be suspicious.

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Winters was arrested and charged with desecrating human remains in the second degree and two counts of aggravated assault on police officers, prosecutors said.

He was booked into the Bergen County jail pending his next court appearance.