In a tragic case from Clermont County, Ohio, parents Olivia Palmer and Daniel Bros have been charged with child endangering following the death of their two-month-old son, Jasper Miles Bros. The charges stem from allegations that the couple failed to provide a safe environment for their infant, leading to his untimely death on April 9th.
Palmer called 911 to report that Jasper was unresponsive and bleeding from his nose. Despite the rush to Claremont Mercy Hospital, the baby could not be saved. The circumstances surrounding his death have drawn significant public attention and concern, particularly given that authorities have indicated that the situation was preventable.
According to the incident report, Palmer and Bros were not accused of intentionally causing their child’s death. However, the sheriff’s office has stated that the couple violated their parental duties by not ensuring a safe living environment for Jasper. Investigators executed a search warrant at their home, where they seized drug paraphernalia and electronic devices. During interviews, detectives found inconsistencies in Palmer’s account of events leading up to the tragedy.
Evidence collected from the couple’s social media accounts and electronic devices suggested that Palmer was impaired on the night of the incident. She admitted to being under the influence while co-sleeping with Jasper and Bros in their bed, raising questions about their ability to care for the child properly.
Both parents have been indicted on charges of child endangering, a third-degree felony in Ohio, but no charges related to Jasper’s death have been filed at this time. The child endangering statute mandates that guardians must not create a substantial risk to a child’s health or safety. The law does not apply in cases where a parent is treating a child’s illness through recognized spiritual means, which was not relevant in this situation.
Palmer and Bros were arrested this month but posted bail shortly after their court appearance, where they pleaded not guilty. Their next court date is set for next month, potentially allowing for the scheduling of a trial. Legal experts have noted the unusual nature of the case, particularly the absence of more serious charges such as manslaughter, which some observers feel might be warranted given the circumstances.
The case raises alarming questions about parental responsibility and the tragic consequences of substance abuse and neglect. As the investigation continues, many in the community are left grappling with the loss of a young life and the legal implications for Jasper’s parents. The ongoing proceedings will likely shed further light on the events leading up to this heartbreaking incident.