Father sentenced for son's death

Lawrence Riehl, 62, was sentenced Monday to 17 years in prison for the death of his 21-year-old autistic son who starved to death in March 2025.

Son found severely malnourished

Deputies discovered Riehl's son on a bedroom floor weighing only 55 pounds, surrounded by trash, empty food containers, and human feces in deplorable conditions.

Medical warnings ignored

In March 2024, a year before his death, medical providers warned that the victim was severely underweight and suffering from muscle loss due to improper nutrition.

Cause of death revealed

The medical examiner determined the son died from choking on his own feces, which investigators believe he ate out of starvation. Evidence showed he was immobilized in the same position for extended periods.

Charges and plea

Riehl was convicted of first-degree involuntary manslaughter, second-degree domestic assault, and abuse of a person with a disability. He entered an Alford plea, maintaining innocence while conceding sufficient evidence for conviction.

Prosecutor reflects on case

Washington County Prosecutor John Jones IV said the outcome brings the case to a just conclusion, noting the victim was a vulnerable young man who relied on others for basic needs.

“This was a tragic case involving the death of a vulnerable young man who relied on others for his most basic needs.”