Indianola police: Blunt-force trauma cause of death for 4-month-old boy at day care
An Indianola woman has been charged with first-degree murder following the death of a 4-month-old baby in her care. Melissa Hancock, 51, turned herself in to authorities Wednesday morning.
The investigation began on Oct. 8, when first responders were called to Hancock's home for an unresponsive infant. The baby was airlifted to a hospital in Des Moines, where he passed away four days later.
Court documents reveal the infant suffered a skull fracture, retinal hemorrhaging, and spinal trauma, injuries consistent with blunt-force trauma.
Medical professionals also identified both new and healing injuries, suggesting a pattern of prior abuse.
Investigators noted text messages from Hancock expressing irritation with the baby and described her actions as showing "callous disregard for his wellbeing."
At the time of the incident, Hancock's day care was not registered with the state.
Chief Sher stated there is no evidence of abuse involving other children in her care.
Neighbors Ralph and Sonja Blackman, who live across the street from Hancock's home, expressed their shock and concern. "I'm really concerned. You hate to hear that in any family, and that's got to be just devastating for the whole family," said Ralph Blackman. Sonja added, "We just hope and pray that everything works out alright because right now that family has got to be devastated."
Chief Sher explained the monthslong investigation finally leading to Hancock's arrest Wednesday.
"Investigations take time," he said. "Thorough interviews, medical examinations, and through a county attorney's review of the case, investigations just take time."
Hancock's bond, initially set at $500,000, was reduced to $100,000. She posted bail and was released from the Warren County Jail around noon on Wednesday.
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