Court Documents Reveal 10-Year-Old Boy Died After 340-Pound Adoptive Mom Laid on Him

A Tragic Incident in Indiana: 10-Year-Old Boy Dies After Being Pinned by Adoptive Mother

In a heartbreaking event, a 10-year-old boy tragically lost his life after an altercation with his adoptive mother resulted in a fatal restraint. Jennifer Lee Wilson, a 48-year-old woman from Northern Indiana, has been taken into custody by the police following a two-month search. The incident occurred on 25 April, and Wilson is now facing charges of reckless homicide, a level five felony.

Before emergency services were called to their home in Valparaiso, it’s reported that the young boy, Dakota Levi Stevens, sought refuge at a neighbor’s house, begging them to adopt him. This desperate plea came shortly after he suffered physical assault at the hands of Wilson, who then prevented him from contacting his caseworker. The neighbor, however, noticed no visible injuries.

According to Wilson’s account to the police, after retrieving Dakota from the neighbor’s residence, he exhibited defiant behavior, which escalated upon their return home. Wilson, who is significantly larger than Dakota, admitted to laying on him for an estimated five minutes in an attempt to control him, which tragically led to his inability to breathe properly.

Details from the court documents reveal Wilson’s uncertainty about whether the fall was a result of a tackle or an accident. Her intent, she claimed, was merely to restrain him. After realizing the gravity of the situation, Wilson attempted CPR and alerted emergency services.

Unfortunately, despite her efforts, Dakota was pronounced dead at the hospital. An autopsy later confirmed the cause of death as mechanical asphyxia and officially ruled the manner of death as homicide.

In a poignant tribute on Facebook, Dakota’s former foster father, Hayden Hetzel, expressed his enduring love and commitment to preserving Dakota’s memory. Hetzel’s message highlighted his hopes that he had been a positive role model during the time he cared for Dakota, emphasizing the impact of his short but significant life.

For those impacted by child welfare issues or in need of support, resources are available. The Childhelp USA National Child Abuse Hotline provides confidential assistance and can be reached at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453), operating around the clock to offer help across multiple regions.