Girl Found Near Death After Years of Starvation Abuse

A 14-year-old girl was discovered near death, suffering from organ failure, hypothermia, and weighing a mere 38 pounds, following an alleged five-year campaign of severe neglect. Her father, Walter Goodman, alerted authorities after she became unresponsive. The girl's family, including her stepmother Melissa Goodman and two other relatives, are now facing multiple charges for nutritional, emotional, medical, and physical abuse.

The criminal complaint details horrifying allegations, including the girl being confined to a locked bedroom with minimal access to food, water, and bathroom facilities, despite her family members being overweight. Disturbing text messages from her father expressed intent to withhold food and even harm her. Her stepmother and others allegedly discussed physical abuse.

Neighbors expressed shock and disgust at the severity of the allegations. Fortunately, the victim has been released from the hospital and is reportedly stable, recovering with other family members and regaining weight. Outagamie County continues to address a high volume of child abuse and neglect reports, with neglect being the most common category.