91-year-old Helen and her 88-year-old husband George had been married for 65 years. George relied on 12 pills a day for severe heart failure.
When their supplemental insurance lapsed, Helen faced a $940 bill for his monthly prescriptions instead of the usual $50 co-pay.
Terrified as she watched his health decline, she took the medicine from the pharmacy without paying.
She was arrested for felony theft and brought to court directly from the hospital in a gown and chains.
Judge Marcus, visibly moved, ordered the chains removed, dismissed the charges, and arranged immediate assistance for the couple, including medicine and emergency aid.
