KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Leavenworth woman was found guilty this week following an investigation into the neglect of a 22-month-old child who was brought to a Kansas City hospital in January.
Medical personnel reported that the child weighed approximately 12 pounds – consistent with the average weight of a 2-month-old – and said the child showed signs of severe malnourishment.
The caregiver claimed the child’s condition was due to premature birth and a global developmental delay. However, Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said medical staff were unable to verify any medical condition that would explain the extent of the child’s weight loss.
One physician involved in the case stated she was “certain the malnourishment is a direct result of starvation and neglect,” Thompson noted in a news release.
On Wednesday, Sarah Lynn Nichole Jones was found guilty of endangering a child and attempted abuse of a child after pleading no contest.
“There’s nothing our office takes more seriously than issues of health and welfare of children,” Thompson said. “Although we are limited in what we can discuss at this time, we can confirm that the child is now safe, doing well and in very good health. This is due to the many people who stepped up to help. We are grateful to all those involved. I cannot express how important it is that when you see something, you say something.”
Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 6 at 11 a.m.
