Maryland Man Accused Of Child Abuse And Neglect After 6-Year-Old Son Is Found Dead

A Maryland man has been arrested after his 6-year-old son was found dead in his home. Police arrested the suspect after responding to a report of an unresponsive child. When officers arrived at the suspect’s home, they found the boy dead. It was determined that the boy died of severe malnutrition and starvation. According to investigators, the 31-year-old father failed to provide proper care and medical treatment for the child. A second 5-year-old boy was also found in the home. He was removed from the home and is now getting medical treatment.

The suspect was arrested and faces two counts of first degree child abuse and criminal neglect of a minor. More charges may be pending as medical examiners perform an autopsy. Police say the investigation is active and ongoing.

Child abuse and neglect under Maryland law 

Under Maryland law, criminal neglect of a child is considered abuse through omission. Neglect occurs when a parent or guardian establishes a pattern of failing to provide for the child’s material needs. This includes basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare. Under Maryland law, allowing a child to go hungry for a sustained period of time is considered child abuse and neglect. Legal neglect of a child under Maryland law can be broken down into four categories:

• Physical neglect – Failing to provide food, shelter, supervision, heat, and weather-appropriate clothing is all considered physical neglect.

• Medical neglect – Failing to provide adequate health and dental care for the child. A parent may be found guilty of medical neglect if they refuse the medical advice of a doctor or fail to bring their child to a doctor when they are sick.

• Educational neglect – Failing to enroll a child in school or provide special education when necessary. Also, allowing excessive absences from school is considered educational neglect.

• Emotional neglect – Failing to provide supervision, support, affection, and love is considered emotional neglect.

Neglect of a Minor 

Under Maryland law, a parent can be charged with child neglect separate from, or in addition to, allegations of child abuse.  The crime of neglect of a minor carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.  In most cases Maryland law requires that any sentence imposed for child neglect be imposed consecutive to the sentence imposed on any other charge arising from the same facts and circumstances.

Talk to a Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Today 

The Bel Air criminal defense attorneys at Schlaich & Thompson represent the interests of parents who have been charged with child abuse or neglect. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your defense immediately.

Source:

wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-father-charged-in-death-of-6-year-old-son/65-7666bf8a-ec77-4a57-a6a4-7949442a6e81