by Cincinnati, OH – A heartbreaking case has emerged from Ohio, where a 9-year-old foster boy with autism was found so severely malnourished that he resorted to drinking dishwater. The boy’s alarming condition was reported after staff at his school noticed his failing health and alerted authorities.
Kelly Lewis, 52, the foster mother accused of neglect, is facing felony child endangering charges after the boy lost around 14% of his body weight, requiring a nearly monthlong hospitalization. The disturbing situation has raised serious concerns about foster care oversight and child welfare.
The Disturbing Discovery of Severe Malnourishment
Between April and August, investigators revealed that the boy suffered from profound neglect. Cops reported sightings of the child rummaging through garbage cans for food and drinking dishwater in desperation.
- The boy has autism and several medical issues, including seizures.
- He is nonverbal and under foster care for several years.
- Staff at his school were the first to notice signs of malnourishment.
Prosecutors described Lewis’ alleged care as a “severe violation of trust,” emphasizing the critical breach in the child’s wellbeing.
Legal Proceedings and Foster Care Controversy
Kelly Lewis has been a foster parent since 2007 and is currently caring for another child, a 14-year-old. At her arraignment, her attorney claimed she followed a nutritionist’s advice, feeding the boy specific protein shakes, despite the boy’s critical health decline.
Lewis was arrested and booked at Hamilton County Jail with a $50,000 bond, which she posted the following day. She is now wearing an ankle monitor and has a strict court order prohibiting any contact with the victim. Judge Bernie Bouchard sternly warned her to “stay away from that kid.”
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Broader Implications and Ongoing Concerns
This tragic case shines a light on the vulnerabilities within the foster care system, especially concerning children with special needs. The boy’s significant weight loss and desperate behavior underscore the necessity for rigorous oversight and immediate intervention in cases of suspected abuse.
Authorities have yet to release an update on the boy’s current condition. The case continues to draw attention as Lewis prepares for her court date scheduled for November 17.
For more detailed information, visit the full report on Law&Crime.
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