Judge reprimands Phoenixville man for locking grandmother in basement and feeding her stale pizza while stealing from her.

A Chester County judge has issued a significant ruling in a case involving serious elder abuse, rejecting a Phoenixville man’s expression of remorse for his actions against his grandmother. Christopher Ruse, 27, received a sentence of 11½ to 23 months in county jail, accompanied by a five-year probationary period, following an unsettling display of conduct that included physically and psychologically abusing his 62-year-old grandmother, Paula Diarcangelo.

Judge Alita A. Rovito admonished Ruse for the severe nature of his actions, which not only caused emotional distress but also involved the financial exploitation of his elderly relative. Ruse’s case drew attention when it was revealed that he, alongside his friend David Frame, 37, conspired to take control of Diarcangelo’s Social Security benefits and attempted, through coercive means, to obtain ownership of her home on Ridge Road in Phoenixville.

Ruse had previously pled guilty to conspiracy and reckless endangerment. His actions included locking Diarcangelo in the basement of her home, where she was subjected to degrading living conditions, including a diet of stale pizza and confinement near open sewage. During this time, Ruse and Frame exploited her financial resources for their personal benefit, renovating and outfitting the upper part of the house with furniture and electronics purchased using her funds.

The abuse came to light in March 2022, when Diarcangelo’s daughter reported the distressing situation to law enforcement after overhearing her mother cry for help. Police successfully rescued Diarcangelo from her basement confinement; however, due to complications arising from the trauma she endured, the woman later passed away from a heart attack, a situation that her daughter claims was exacerbated by the stress inflicted upon her.

During the sentencing hearing, Ruse expressed remorse for his actions and acknowledged the damage done to his family relationships. His attorney highlighted Ruse’s struggles with drug addiction and difficult childhood experiences. However, Judge Rovito remained unswayed, emphasizing the deep betrayal of trust involved in Ruse’s actions. She pointed out the emotional toll of his behavior on Diarcangelo, noting that he had not only invaded her home but also her heart.

David Frame, who also faced serious charges, pled guilty to reckless endangerment and possession of an instrument of crime and is currently serving a 23-month sentence in county jail.

As the community processes the ramifications of this case, it underscores the critical issue of elder abuse and the need for vigilant protection of vulnerable populations. The verdict serves as a reminder of the legal system’s role in addressing such heinous acts against the elderly and ensuring that justice is served.

Overall, the case sheds light on the broader societal challenge of safeguarding the dignity and welfare of aging individuals in our communities.