An Indiana couple, Melody and Adam Greenwood, are facing charges of child neglect after allegedly subjecting their 10-year-old son to severe punishment. The couple reportedly used zip ties to bind the boy and forced him to stand against a wall for extended periods, with a towel over his head to prevent him from watching television.
The Greenwood couple, aged 38 and 36 respectively, are also accused of neglecting the boy’s nutritional needs. While their seven other children were allowed to consume fast food and sweets, the 10-year-old was reportedly only given canned vegetables to eat.
The couple has been charged with multiple counts of neglect of a dependent. The investigation into the Greenwoods began when the boy, described as “extremely skinny,” was taken to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie for a check-up. Medical professionals at the hospital reported suspected abuse to the police after noticing scars on the boy’s wrists, believed to be caused by zip ties.
Further investigation revealed that the boy and his seven siblings confirmed that he had been singled out for abuse by his parents. The boy was reportedly forced to stand in place for up to 12 hours as a form of punishment. He also told authorities that his siblings were instructed to physically assault him if he spoke or moved away from the wall.
The Greenwood parents reportedly justified their actions by stating that the boy was “grounded.” The Indiana Department of Child Services is also investigating the allegations against the couple.
Melody Greenwood, who is facing three counts of neglect, was released after posting a $15,000 bond. Adam Greenwood, charged with two counts of neglect, was released on a $10,000 bond. Attempts to reach the Greenwoods for comment were unsuccessful.