The Lead Off
- A Muncie mother and father have been arrested after police say a toddler was beaten and found bleeding.
- Court documents allege the child suffered visible injuries including welts and a handprint.
- The child was taken to a hospital for further evaluation following the incident.
MUNCIE, IND. (WOWO) — A Muncie couple has been arrested after police say they beat a toddler, leaving the child injured and bleeding, according to court documents filed in the case.
Police identified the suspects as 23-year-old Austin Anderson and 19-year-old Audrey Davis. Both are facing preliminary charges of neglect of a dependent, a Level 3 felony; neglect of a dependent, a Level 6 felony; and battery, a Level 6 felony.
Police response and investigation
The Muncie Police Department was dispatched Tuesday to the 2700 block of E. Jackson Street at approximately 4:19 p.m. following a report of child abuse.
When officers arrived, they spoke with a witness who provided an audio recording of the alleged incident, according to court documents.
Allegations outlined in court documents
Investigators tell FOX-59 that the recording captured Davis yelling at a 3-year-old child before allegedly striking the toddler multiple times.
Court documents state the child had a visible red handprint on their face and multiple red marks on the buttocks, which were reportedly bleeding and covered in welts.
Police also allege Anderson struck the child multiple times after hearing the child crying.
According to investigators, Davis told police she became angry after the child defecated in a diaper instead of using the toilet. Both suspects reportedly admitted to hitting the child during interviews.
Medical response
Authorities said the toddler was transported to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment. No additional details on the child’s condition have been released.
Next steps
The case has been forwarded for prosecution as investigators continue to review evidence, including the audio recording and statements from witnesses. Formal charges will proceed through the court system, where both suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
