UTICA -- A Utica man is accused of neglecting an elderly woman in his care.

49-year-old Theodore Talerico, of Catherine Street, is charged with endangering the welfare of an incompetent or physically disabled person, a misdemeanor.

Utica police say he was caring for a 72-year-old woman who suffered a significant eye injury. Police say Talerico knew about the injury and didn't seek medical attention for her. As a result, the victim suffered substantial pain and permanent blindness.