Home / Crime and Justice / Couple Pleads Not Guilty to Child Neglect Charges
Couple Pleads Not Guilty to Child Neglect Charges
20 Aug
Summary
- Couple faces child neglect charges after child hospitalized with malnutrition.
- Child found in garbage can, suffered frostbite and untreated wounds.
- Couple allegedly restricted child's diet and withheld clean clothing.
Aaron and Melissa Rakowski, of Rudolph, have entered not guilty pleas to charges of child neglect causing great bodily harm and mental harm. These charges stem from an incident where a child in their care was hospitalized with suspected malnutrition and untreated wounds.
The child had reportedly run away and was found in a neighbor's garbage can. Medical evaluations revealed the child suffered from frostbite, a nose bleed, and bruising, with untreated injuries upon hospitalization. Doctors diagnosed the child with kwashiorkor, a severe protein deficiency.
According to criminal complaints, the couple allegedly placed the child on a restricted diet of eggs and rice, withholding additional food and keeping it locked up. The child also experienced bladder issues, with one caregiver reportedly refusing clean clothes to avoid laundry, leading to the child wearing soiled garments and sometimes going barefoot.
Further allegations include harsh punishments such as requiring the child to run laps on a steep driveway or stand with hands raised. Another child reportedly confirmed the restricted food and punishment methods. The couple faces a maximum of 15 years in prison if convicted.
