INIANAPOLIS-IMPD detectives arrested the mother of a 9-month-old infant following a child abuse investigation. The victim later passed away and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges against the mother.
On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, just after 9:00 a.m., IMPD Child Abuse Detectives responded to Riley Hospital for Children to investigate an unresponsive 9-month-old female. Detectives arrived, consulted medical personnel, and learned the infant had injuries consistent with trauma and was reported to be in critical condition.
IMPD child abuse detectives continued their investigation interviewing several witnesses and consulting with medical personnel. The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency responded to identify and collect potential forensic evidence.
On Friday, December 8, 2023, detectives arrested the infant’s mother, 36-year-old Ingris Marleni-Hernandez for her alleged role in this incident. She was initially arrested for neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury and battery resulting in serious bodily injury to a minor.
Unfortunately, on Monday, December 11, the infant was pronounced deceased by medical personnel. On Tuesday, December 12, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO) charged Marleni-Hernandez with neglect of a dependent causing death and aggravated battery.
Today, December 13, the Marion County Coroner’s Office assisted and determined the exact manner and cause of death, ruling this case a homicide. The Marion County Coroner’s Office will release the infant's name once a proper next-of-kin notification has been made.
A charge and arrest are merely accusations. The suspect should be considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The MCPO will make the final charging decision.
Case# IP230119878
