Indiana – In a distressing case from Indiana, a 38-year-old mother, identified as A. Bredhold, and a 38-year-old father, identified as B. Bredhold, are facing serious charges following the death of their 12-year-old daughter, Alice. The couple was arrested on August 7 and charged with neglect of a dependent causing death, a first-degree felony under state law, due to their alleged failure to manage their daughter’s diabetes adequately.
According to affidavits and local news reports, Alice was found deceased on her bedroom floor on July 4 at the family’s residence. An investigation into her death revealed that Alice, a diabetic, had been poorly managed, with frequent high blood sugar levels noted at her school. According to reports, Alice had arrived at school with high blood sugar on 34 occasions since January, indicating a severe lack of adequate care at home. The coroner determined that Alice died from diabetic ketosis, a critical condition that manifests several clear symptoms and can be fatal if not properly treated. This condition arises when the body starts breaking down fat at an unsafe rate due to a lack of insulin, leading to a buildup of acids called ketones in the bloodstream.
Following Alice’s death, authorities took immediate action. The state’s Department of Child Services had previously contacted the Bredhold family regarding Alice’s health issues, but it remains unclear how long the child welfare agency had been engaged with the family or how the blood sugar test results had been managed before her untimely death. In response to the circumstances surrounding Alice’s death, two other children were removed from the Bredhold residence, which was described as being in poor condition with garbage and insects prevalent.
Alice was a student at a local elementary school, where she was known for her participation in the school’s orchestra, playing the cello. Her obituary highlights her love for reading, participating in a local book club, and her involvement in a youth team for scientific exploration. Described as naturally artistic, creative, and outgoing, Alice’s death has left a significant impact on her community and peers, with many remembering her energetic and friendly spirit.
The arrest of Alice’s parents came after a nearly month-long investigation, culminating in police action on Wednesday afternoon. The Bredhold couple are currently held on a $100,000 bond each in jail. Their initial hearings were scheduled for Thursday afternoon. This case not only underscores the severe implications of neglect but also serves as a grim reminder of the responsibilities parents hold in managing their children’s chronic health conditions. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, the legal system is now tasked with unraveling the details of the case and determining the appropriate consequences for the alleged neglect that led to Alice’s tragic death.
