Hartford City, IN – A shocking case of alleged child abuse has left a 7-year-old girl fighting for her life, and both of her parents in jail, after police say the mother attacked the child in a violent rage while the father refused to step in.
A probable cause affidavit details a disturbing sequence of events uncovered after officers responded Tuesday afternoon to a home on West Commercia Street for a report of an unresponsive child. Medical teams quickly determined the girl’s injuries were not accidental, and doctors reportedly do not expect her to survive.
Initial Claim Raises Red Flags for Doctors
Jennifer Revis, 33, allegedly told police her daughter had a seizure after an argument and a dog bite. But when the child arrived at the hospital, medical staff observed extensive bruising across her body and severe brain injuries. Doctors concluded the trauma came from repeated physical abuse, prompting detectives to question the parents separately.
The girl’s injuries were described as catastrophic, and immediate concerns were raised about her survival.
Mother Reportedly Admits to Prolonged Abuse
As investigators pressed for answers, they uncovered a pattern of violence that the mother herself allegedly admitted. She initially blamed a seizure triggered by the dog but then shifted her story several times.
According to the affidavit, Jennifer Revis said the incident began when the girl pushed her sibling. She later admitted she became enraged over what she perceived as disrespect.
Detectives reported that the mother described picking up a hammer and hitting the child’s hands and feet, as well as slapping and punching her repeatedly.
She allegedly told investigators she could no longer control her emotions.
Key Statements Reportedly Given by the Mother
She reportedly told detectives:
“I can’t tell right from wrong anymore. I see rage, bro, when she talks to me like that, I just see rage and I don’t know. I just lost it.”
She also admitted to previous abuse, allegedly saying:
“I did beat the s— out of her two days ago.”
The affidavit indicates Jennifer Revis acknowledged she had gone too far, telling police:
“I should have more self-control. I’m an adult.”
Father Says He Didn’t Intervene Out of Fear
While the mother gave detailed statements, the father’s interview raised additional concerns.
Ryan Revis, 28, allegedly told detectives he saw the injuries but “chose not to intervene” because he feared child protective services would take away their other children.
However, the mother also accused him of participating in the violence, reportedly telling detectives he choked the girl and threw her against a wall. According to her account, he allegedly “hated” the child and wanted to kill her.
Ryan Revis denied active involvement but admitted he failed to stop the abuse.
Charges Filed Against Both Parents
Jennifer Revis faces multiple charges, including:
- Neglect of a dependent causing catastrophic injury
- Aggravated battery
- Domestic battery with serious injury to a child under 14
Ryan Revis faces a felony neglect charge for allegedly failing to protect the child.
Both remain held at the Blackford County Jail.
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The severe nature of the child’s injuries has left first responders and hospital staff shaken. Detectives are continuing to document the extent of injuries and piece together the timeline of abuse. Social services are working to ensure the safety of the family’s remaining children.
Officials say the investigation remains open as they await medical updates and further forensic analysis.
What Happens Next in Court
Both parents are scheduled for their next court appearance on Wednesday. Additional charges may be filed depending on the child’s medical condition.
Authorities have not released the current medical status of the girl due to the severity of her injuries, though early statements indicate doctors believe she is unlikely to survive.
Share your thoughts in the comments and stay informed as updates become available in this developing case.
