The Lead Off
- A Hartford City man has been arrested after police say he strangled a 3-year-old child, according to court documents.
- The child was treated at Riley Hospital after being brought in with visible marks on the neck.
- The suspect allegedly admitted to placing his hands around the child’s neck during the incident.
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HARTFORD CITY, IND. (WOWO) A Hartford City man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he strangled a 3-year-old child, resulting in visible injuries and a hospital visit.
Court documents show 21-year-old Kaden Schroeder was arrested and charged following an investigation by the Hartford City Police Department.
Hospital report triggers investigation
Officers were called on Thursday, June 4, at approximately 11:50 p.m. after a Riley Hospital staff member reported that a 3-year-old child had been brought in by the child’s father with marks on the neck.
Medical staff alerted authorities after observing the injuries, prompting an investigation involving law enforcement and the Department of Child Services.
Statements from investigators and family members
According to court documents, the child told DCS case managers that Schroeder became angry after the child defecated in a diaper and then strangled him.
The child’s mother reportedly told investigators she did not believe Schroeder would harm the child and suggested the marks could have been caused by eczema or irritation from a flotation device.
Authorities noted the mother was not present during the alleged incident.
Suspect’s statement to police
During an interview with investigators, Schroeder admitted to placing both hands around the child’s neck, which resulted in bruising, according to court documents.
Schroeder told police the incident occurred while he was attempting to change the child’s diaper.
He is accused of being the mother’s boyfriend at the time of the alleged assault.
Charges filed and custody status
Schroeder has been charged with:
- Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Bodily Injury, Level 5 Felony
- Domestic Battery with Bodily Injury: Person Under 14, Level 5 Felony
- Strangulation, Level 6 Felony
Following his arrest, Schroeder was transported to the Blackford County Security Center.
Case status and next steps
The case has been submitted to prosecutors for further review as court proceedings move forward. Authorities have not announced additional hearings at this time.
The Takeaway
Charges stem from hospital report and investigation
Authorities began investigating after hospital staff reported injuries to a 3-year-old child, leading to court documents outlining allegations of strangulation and subsequent felony charges.
Multiple accounts reviewed by investigators
Court filings indicate statements from the child, the mother, and the suspect were all considered, with the suspect admitting to physical contact that caused bruising.
Case now moves into judicial process
Schroeder remains in custody as prosecutors review the case, with future court dates expected as the felony charges proceed through the legal system.
