A shocking case of child abuse has emerged from Elmwood Place, Ohio, where a 9-year-old boy was found in a critical state, weighing just 30 pounds. The boy’s father, Aaron Stalling, and his live-in girlfriend, Angel Holland, have been charged with multiple counts of felonious assault and child endangerment following a harrowing 911 call made on September 13.
The call, which has since been scrutinized by authorities, revealed the boy was struggling to breathe and was unresponsive. Stalling reported to the dispatcher that the child seemed “really weak” and was unable to speak. Emergency medical personnel arrived to find the child critically ill, with a dangerously low core body temperature of 80 degrees, indicating severe malnourishment and neglect.
According to the affidavit, medical staff confirmed the child displayed signs of physical abuse and had been in this dire state for an extended period. The boys’ younger siblings, aged 6 and 8, were also found to be malnourished and have since been hospitalized.
Angel Holland, identified as the child’s custodian since 2020, admitted that she had not sought medical care for the boy, who had complained of a stomach ache three days prior to the incident. She claimed to be preoccupied with another child at the time of the emergency. Stalling, when questioned about the boy’s condition, defensively stated, “We feed him,” prompting further concern regarding the adequacy of care being provided.
A search warrant executed at the couple’s residence revealed disturbing evidence, including bungee cords, a belt, and soiled towels, which may point to a more sinister pattern of abuse. These findings have raised questions about the nature of discipline and care the children were subjected to.
Both Stalling and Holland are currently being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center with a bail set at $600,000. Their arraignment is forthcoming, and a grand jury is expected to hear the case soon, potentially leading to additional charges.
Experts in child welfare have expressed alarm over the lack of intervention prior to this incident. Dr. Daniel Bober, a forensic psychiatrist, emphasized the need for community vigilance in spotting signs of neglect and abuse, urging neighbors and schools to take notice of children’s well-being. He highlighted that severe abuse often occurs in isolation, making it crucial for communities to ask questions and ensure children are safe.
The case raises serious concerns about the oversight of child custody arrangements and the responsibilities of caregivers. It remains unclear why Angel Holland was granted custody of the children and whether they were enrolled in school, as this could have prompted necessary checks on their health and welfare.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the recovery of the young victims, who are now receiving medical attention. Authorities and child welfare services are involved, and updates on the children’s health are anticipated.
This deeply troubling case sheds light on the urgent need for stronger protective measures for vulnerable children and the critical role communities play in safeguarding their well-being.
