Muskogee, OK — Authorities in Oklahoma are investigating a shocking case in which an 11-year-old girl delivered a full-term baby at home without medical care, leading to the arrest of her parents for felony child neglect.
Parents Arrested for Alleged Neglect
According to court documents obtained by local media, the girl’s mother, Cherie Walker, 33, and her stepfather, Dustin Walker, 34, were both arrested after investigators determined they failed to provide supervision or medical assistance for their daughter. The girl gave birth on August 16 at their home, with no prenatal care or medical oversight.
“I was horror-stricken to find out it’s an 11-year-old little girl who’s given birth,” said Muskogee County Assistant District Attorney Janet Hutson, speaking to FOX23. “And that she had no medical care, and she had no one to be with her.”
Lack of Medical Care and Prenatal Attention
Investigators revealed that the girl had not seen a doctor in more than a year and had received no prenatal care during her pregnancy. Court documents indicate that she was 36 weeks pregnant at the time of delivery. Her parents allegedly claimed they were unaware she was pregnant, according to Hutson.
“This child is traumatized,” Hutson told KOTV. “She’s been through a horrific ordeal. I mean, not only has somebody gotten her pregnant, but she gave birth at home without medical assistance, and this will be her life for the rest of her life.”
Legal Proceedings and Potential Additional Charges
Both parents are currently being held in the Muskogee County Jail on $100,000 bond each and are scheduled to appear in court on September 3. Each faces a felony child neglect charge, and authorities have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation continues.
Investigators are also awaiting paternity test results to identify the father of the baby. Meanwhile, officials emphasize the seriousness of the case, noting the emotional and physical trauma the young girl has endured.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has shocked the local community, highlighting the risks of children going without adequate supervision and medical care. Authorities are working to ensure the safety of the newborn and the minor mother, coordinating with social services for ongoing support.
“We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness,” Hutson said. “Ensuring the welfare of both the child and her newborn is our top priority.”
This case has drawn national attention due to the age of the mother and the circumstances of the home birth, emphasizing the importance of prenatal care and vigilant child supervision. The investigation continues as officials work to gather additional details and determine if further legal actions are necessary.
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