A criminal complaint details allegations that a child was left in unsafe conditions for an extended period.
RITCHIE COUNTY, WV – A 20-year-old man is facing a felony charge after investigators say he left a toddler inside a garage during near-freezing conditions while he worked on a vehicle, an incident that led to the child becoming ill and requiring hospital care.
Court records show Ian Newlon was arrested last week and charged with child neglect creating a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury. The case stems from an incident in February when temperatures were reported at just 2 degrees.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by WBOY, the investigation began after two individuals sought a protective order against Newlon. After an unspecified period of caring for the child, Newlon allegedly dropped the toddler off with another caregiver, where the child showed signs of distress.
Condition of the child raised alarms
The complaint states the boy “was dirty with an unchanged diaper” and “was vomiting and coughing.” The child was later taken to a hospital for treatment. Officials did not release an update on the child’s condition.
Investigators interviewed Newlon, who allegedly told them he had been “working on his truck” and left the child inside a garage. While the garage had a wood stove, authorities said it was not “sufficiently” heated due to the structure’s size and the extreme outdoor temperature.
Arrest, bond, and court status
Newlon was taken into custody Saturday and booked into the North Central Regional Jail. Jail records show he posted a $15,000 bond on Tuesday. He has been appointed a public defender but has not yet entered a plea. A court date has not been listed.
The criminal complaint does not specify Newlon’s relationship to the child.
child neglect West Virginia, Ritchie County arrest, toddler left in garage, North Central Regional Jail, West Virginia State Police