In a disturbing case out of Utah, a 32-year-old father and his 44-year-old girlfriend have been charged with child torture after prosecutors say they starved the man’s 5-year-old daughter. According to a probable-cause document, the little girl was brought to a hospital severely underweight and eating her own feces and other non-food items. The charges were filed after authorities say the child’s condition raised alarm bells at a medical facility.
Subhead 1: Disturbing Details of the Starvation
Investigators say the father had taken custody of his daughter when she was about 15 months old. Over the years, her growth reportedly stalled, placing her on charts more typical for a toddler. Once hospitalised, she gained nearly 9 pounds in just over two weeks under consistent nutritional supervision. The affidavit says the child would rummage through the fridge and pantry for food — and the father allegedly believed she was “stealing” food, prompting him and his girlfriend to lock the refrigerator and cabinets. The child was then allegedly forced to survive on minimal food and non-edible items like Play-Doh, wax, and even her own feces.
Subhead 2: Legal Action and Charges
The case was brought forward by the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, following an investigation by the West Valley City Police Department. The father is charged along with his girlfriend with child torture — a serious felony. The girl remains in protective care while the criminal case move forward. Authorities have not released full details of their defence.
Subhead 3: Wider Implications and Call for Awareness
This case highlights the severe outcomes of child neglect and starvation, especially when warning signs go unheeded. Health professionals stress that children who stop gaining weight appropriately or seek out non-food items may signal serious underlying neglect. Child welfare advocates emphasise the importance of early intervention, mandatory reporting, and swift medical attention when growth delays or malnutrition appear.
