Home / Crime and Justice / Child Paralyzed After Foster Mother's Brutal Assault
Child Paralyzed After Foster Mother's Brutal Assault
18 Aug
Summary
- Foster mother admitted to throwing sick girl, breaking her neck.
- Child now suffers permanent paralysis from abuse and delayed care.
- Keno faces up to 14 years for aggravated assault conviction.
Marilyn Keno, a 26-year-old foster mother, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault on Friday in Winnipeg. She admitted to violently throwing a sick six-year-old girl in her care to the floor multiple times between September 17 and September 18 of last year. These actions resulted in the child suffering a broken neck and paralysis.
Keno's assault occurred when the girl, who was ill, vomited after being given medicine. In an agitated state, Keno threw the child down at least three times. Following the paralysis, Keno used a thumbtack to pierce the girl's feet to elicit a response, and delayed seeking medical care.
By September 19, the girl was struggling to breathe, prompting Keno to call 911 and falsely report the child had fallen from bed. Rushed to the hospital, the girl was found to have multiple fractures, bruised lungs, extensive bruising, and chemical burns. Keno faces a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison.
Keno's husband is also facing charges related to failing to provide the necessaries of life and assault with a weapon. The incident has prompted investigations by Manitoba Families and the province's advocate for children and youth.
