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Mother, Boyfriend Charged in Toddler's Brutal Beating
6 Apr
Summary
- A 3-year-old girl suffered severe injuries including kidney damage.
- Mother and boyfriend face neglect charges resulting in catastrophic injury.
- The child was found unconscious with extensive bruising and internal injuries.

In New Castle, Indiana, a 3-year-old girl was found unconscious with extensive bruising on March 25th, leading to charges against her mother, Kami Nelson, and her boyfriend, Lee O'Donnell. Both face two counts of neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury.
Doctors reported the child suffered severe internal injuries, including damage to her colon and intestines. Her kidneys were also significantly impacted, necessitating dialysis. This critical condition has led to the serious charges filed against Nelson and O'Donnell.
Authorities were called to a rental home where the girl was discovered. During questioning, Nelson reportedly attributed the injuries to her daughter sleepwalking and bumping into objects. Subsequently, both Nelson and O'Donnell allegedly implicated each other in the child's severe abuse.
Additional charges of drug paraphernalia possession have been filed against both suspects. They have pleaded not guilty to all charges. The case highlights critical issues of child welfare and the legal ramifications of severe neglect.