The mother of a 5-year-old is being held legally accountable after her son was discovered in the washing machine while it was turned on.
30-year-old Heather Oliver and her family reside in Elwood, Indiana.
On August 16, Oliver reportedly woke up and got out of bed around 9:00 am, and began her morning after she thought she spotted her son asleep in his room.
As she prepared a beverage in the kitchen, Oliver reportedly noticed sounds coming from the washing machine but the woman had not been using the appliance.
When she went to investigate the situation, Oliver reportedly spotted her son immersed in the water while the machine was turned on and she immediately removed the boy from the washer.
Oliver reported that she held her son to try to calm him and she called her husband, who came home and took them to St. Vincent Mercy Hospital to have their child treated if he was in need of it.
The authorities dispatched to the hospital and spoke with the boy’s dad, who informed them that his wife is ill and taking prescription medication in addition to using a cane to get around so she does not use the washing machine. He also was later reported as explaining that their son had been hiding in different spots and popping out as a source of fun recently, but that the child had not given any sign that indicated he might consider using the washing machine.
The child was found with some scratches and bruising on his body, and the parents both told the authorities that they do not use physical punishment.
Oliver is facing charges for suspicion of felony neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury for the accusations.
If you or someone you love is suspected of child neglect, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.