Kelly Lewis (Hamilton County Jail).
An Ohio woman is accused of allowing her 9-year-old foster son with autism to wither away and become so malnourished he felt the need to drink dishwater.
Kelly Lewis, 52, is facing a charge of felony child endangering, according to police. The Cincinnati Enquirer obtained a criminal complaint that said the abuse occurred between April and August at her home in Cheviot. Cops said staff at the boy”s school noticed he was malnourished and alerted authorities at Hamilton County Job and Family Services.
Investigators learned the boy lost about 14% of his body weight which led to a nearly monthlong stay at a hospital. He was seen rummaging for food in a garbage can and drank dishwater, cops reportedly said. Prosecutors stated Lewis’ alleged actions displayed a “severe violation of trust.”
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At her arraignment, Lewis’ attorney said she has been a foster parent since 2007. She is also caring for a 14-year-old. The attorney said the boy had several medical issues including seizures. He also is nonverbal. Lewis was following the recommendation of a nutritionist by feeding the boy specific protein shakes, her attorney reportedly stated.
Lewis was arrested Wednesday morning and taken to the Hamilton County Jail on a $50,000 bond which she posted on Thursday afternoon, according to records. The defendant will be wearing an ankle monitor and cannot contact the victim.
“Stay away from that kid,” Judge Bernie Bouchard reportedly told Lewis.
Authorities have not provided an update on the condition of the boy.
She has a court date scheduled for Nov. 17.
