The Defiance County Grand Jury has indicted 4 local individuals in connection with the death of a newborn infant from October 2016. 35 year old Jared Stark of Hicksville was indicted for Involuntary Manslaughter, Gross Abuse of a Corpse and Endangering Children. 35 year old Sarah Stark of Hicksville was also indicted for Gross Abuse of a Corpse, along with 58 year old Steven Stark, and 56 year old Sheryl Stark, both of Hicksville. Sarah Stark was also indicted for Child Endangering.
Prosecuting Attorney Morris Murray alleges a male child was born on October 29th, 2016 at a residence on Arrowsmith Road near Hicksville. The charge alleges Jared and Sarah Stark failed to obtain medical attention for the infant, and that the entire family treated the deceased child’s remains in a manner that would outrage reasonable community sensibilities. The child endangering charge is based on allegations a 2 year old male child was exposed to the improperly treated remains over a 17-month period. This created a substantial health and safety risk to the toddler in the house.
None of the four subjects indicted by the Defiance County Grand Jury are now in custody.