Indianapolis family faces neglect charges following child’s death
Indianapolis, Indiana – Three individuals are facing charges of neglect after the death of a young girl with disabilities in Indianapolis. The mother, aunt, and mother’s boyfriend are accused of neglecting to provide her with adequate care and attention.
Rosa Hargrave, a semi-verbal 12-year-old girl with autism, was admitted to Riley Hospital for Children in critical condition after a severe bacterial infection resulting from a large wound on her upper back and side of her abdomen. Unfortunately, she passed away a few days after being admitted to the hospital.
According to Alfie Ballew, an official from the Marion County Coroner’s Office, Rosa’s death was caused by complications arising from necrotizing fasciitis, a bacterial infection, due to chronic ulcers of the skin folds.
Medical professionals at Riley expressed concern over the severity of Rosa’s injuries, noting that the signs and symptoms would have been present for several days before she received treatment. Upon searching the home where Rosa lived with her mother, her mother’s boyfriend, her aunt, and four young children, investigators found evidence of neglect and squalid living conditions.
The residence was infested with mice, cockroaches, bugs, and feces, and the children were reportedly malnourished, dehydrated, and covered in bug and mouse bites. Reports from IEMS workers indicate that the children were taken to Riley Hospital for Children for medical evaluation due to suspected neglect.
Rosa’s mother, Rosa Hargrave, her aunt Felicia Hargrave, and her mother’s boyfriend, Charles Turner, are now facing charges of neglect of a dependent resulting in injury, with Rosa’s mother also facing an additional charge of neglect of a dependent resulting in death. Trial dates for all three have been set for June.
The Department of Child Services is currently investigating the case, but Indiana law prohibits them from disclosing information about their involvement with the family. DCS emphasizes that Indiana is a mandatory reporting state, meaning anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect is required to report it to authorities.
If you suspect a child is being neglected or abused, the Indiana Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline is available 24/7, 365 days a year and can be reached at 800-800-5556. Reports may be made anonymously.
