A malnourished toddler weighing only 19 pounds—the average weight of a 9-month-old—was discovered neglected in Bristol Township on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
Breanna Marie Newman, a 27-year-old woman, was taken into custody on charges of felony child endangerment. The arrest came after authorities discovered her 27-month-old son in an apartment on December 16th. Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn made the announcement about the arrest.
The boy was taken to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, where doctors described his critical condition. They noted a decline in his motor skills, a dangerously low heart rate, and severe malnutrition. According to the report, investigators revealed that Newman failed to seek medical care for her son out of fear that it could result in her losing custody of him.
Newman had relocated from Indiana to Pennsylvania in July to live with a man she had met online. However, their relationship ended, and she moved again, this time with a new boyfriend, to Montgomery County. Eventually, she settled in Bristol Township with a female friend. It was during this time that the friend began to notice a decline in the health of the young boy. Concerned, she recommended a medical assistance program to Newman, but she refused to take the suggestion, according to investigators.
After receiving a tip, Bucks County Children and Youth discovered the child in an extremely neglected condition. Thanks to the care provided by the hospital, the boy has managed to gain 10 pounds.
“This is a terrible case of abuse and neglect,” District Attorney Schorn said. “There is absolutely no justification for this type of extreme neglect. No child deserves to suffer like this.”
Newman faced charges on Thursday, January 9th and is currently being held at the Bucks County Correctional Facility on $250,000 bail, 10 percent. The case is being prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Kristin M. McElroy.
