A lengthy criminal complaint details allegations against a couple from Grand Rapids, Minnesota, accusing them of multiple instances of child abuse, including physical harm and withholding food from a child.
Charges have been brought against Jaymeson Patrich Wahlstrom, 27, and Vivian Rose Wahlstrom, 24, both residents of Grand Rapids, for one count of child torture each.
An investigation was initiated in early October following a report received by Itasca County investigators regarding a child exhibiting bruising. In a recent interview, authorities inquired about the child’s bruises and their sense of safety. The young one expressed a desire to avoid discussion and a wish to steer clear of any consequences.
A teacher informed authorities that there had been earlier reports concerning the same student showing signs of bruising.
Authorities in Grand Rapids have reported discovering footage from a Google Nest camera that documents various incidents of physical abuse, verbal insults, and other troubling behaviors dating back to early September.
The allegations detail instances of the child being subjected to being stepped on, kicked, and struck. According to the document, at one point, one of the suspects threatened the child by saying, “I’m going to kill you.” It also mentions that one of the suspects informed the police that the child had consumed paint chips from the wall.
The complaint states that the child was often left alone in a room devoid of toys, resorting to playing with an empty McDonald’s box for entertainment.
Authorities reported that on one occasion, footage captured the father striking, kicking, and violently throwing the child approximately 100 times.
The Minnesota Children’s Alliance, a prominent advocate for child safety, emphasizes the importance of vigilance in recognizing potential indicators of child abuse, urging individuals to adopt a proactive approach of reporting any concerning observations.
On Friday, Vivian and Jaymeson were present in court, where Jaymeson’s bail was established at $160,000 without conditions or $80,000 with conditions, which included a non-contact order to ensure the child’s safety. The court has established Vivian’s bail at $200,000 without any conditions, or alternatively, at $100,000 with specific conditions, which include a non-contact order to ensure the child’s safety.
Their upcoming court hearing is set for December 26.