A Scioto County Grand Jury has indicted three Portsmouth residents on disturbing charges involving the treatment of a human body.
Patricia Collins, 69; Adam Collins, 45; and Joseph Collins, 49 were each indicted on:
- Gross Abuse of a Corpse
- Tampering with Evidence
- Obstructing Official Business
The case dates back to March 2024, when investigators say the three treated a corpse “in a way that would outrage reasonable community sensibilities.” They’re also accused of hiding or destroying evidence in an effort to interfere with law enforcement. The indictment notes their actions created a risk of harm to another person.
Court records and sources suggest no foul play is indicated in the actual death itself — the charges stem from how the body was handled afterward, not from causing the death.
Arrests and Court Hearings
- Patricia Collins and Joseph Collins were arrested and booked into the Scioto County Jail.
- Adam Collins, who lists his address as a local motel, has not yet been taken into custody but has a hearing scheduled for October 24.
Both Patricia and Joseph were declared indigent and given public defenders. Patricia’s bond was set at $15,000 and covered by the Indigent Defense Fund. She’s due back in court on October 31. Joseph pleaded not guilty, was also given a $15,000 bond, and must avoid drugs and report to probation while on bail.
Background
Court records show Patricia and Joseph Collins were evicted from Portsmouth Metropolitan Housing in May 2024, just weeks after the alleged crime.
Joseph Collins has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for theft, obstruction, and criminal trespass. His past arrests stretch back years and include robbery, domestic violence, receiving stolen property, and driving without a license.
