A mother and father were arrested after refusing to feed their 3-year-old daughter solid foods, resulting in malnourishment and significant tooth rot, according to Kentucky authorities.
Cody Alfred and Jayda McDowell, both 32, are each charged with first-degree felony child abuse. According to a criminal complaint, the youngster was brought to the Hopkins County Health Department for a WIC appointment on July 12. Staff observed the girl’s illness and assessed that her hemoglobin levels were dangerously low, Madisonville Detective Kyle Dame wrote in the complaint. They instructed McDowell to take the girl to a physician immediately. The pediatrician ordered an ambulance to bring the girl to the emergency room.
The infant was taken to a children’s hospital due to a fast heart rate and “appearing chronically ill and malnourished.” She also required a blood transfusion and a dental examination “due to severe tooth decay and tartar buildup.” According to the lawsuit, investigators discovered that the girl’s diet consisted of one gallon of milk per day from a bottle and no commercial food.
Her parents were also scheduled to take her to the doctor in 2021 for a follow-up appointment regarding a hole in her heart, but they never did, according to the complaint. They also missed a cardiology appointment in 2023.
“It’s difficult to describe the poor condition of [redacted] teeth,” said a doctor. “I’d never seen such much deterioration and tartar buildup. The discomfort from trying to eat with teeth in [redacted] condition would be excruciating.”
According to police, the parents also ignored advice to take the girl to the dentist five times. Their actions “undoubtedly” put the girl in a scenario that could result in “serious physical injury,” according to cops.
Evansville, Indiana According to NBC affiliate WFIE, the girl is currently in the custody of social services and doing well.
On Saturday, police transported McDowell and Alfred to Hopkins County Jail, where they are being held on a $1,000 bond.
