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Indiana Mother and Boyfriend Charged in Death of 4-Year-Old Found in Basement Closet

The case puts renewed focus on how child-welfare officials returned custody in 2024.

Overview

  • Police found the boy unresponsive in a basement closet at the Monticello Drive home Monday, March 23, and he was pronounced dead at Riley Hospital soon after.
  • Prosecutors charged Angel Lovely and Nicholas Bergdoll with neglect of a dependent resulting in death, and jail records show both are being held ahead of a March 30 court appearance.
  • A probable cause affidavit says the child had cerebral palsy and epilepsy, used a wheelchair and a feeding tube, and weighed about 22 pounds, pointing to severe undernourishment.
  • Three siblings told investigators he was regularly kept in the closet and slept on blankets there, and court records describe blood on his mouth, clothing, pillow, and blanket.
  • The Marion County Coroner has not yet determined the cause or manner of death as investigators continue to review medical records and witness statements.