Man Sentenced to 16 Years for Injuring Dependent Child

Bartholomew County case highlights importance of alert medical staff in child abuse cases

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:50am

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A man has been sentenced to 16 years in prison after pleading guilty to seriously injuring a 2-year-old dependent child in Bartholomew County, Indiana. The investigation began in October 2023 when medical personnel at Nexus Park noticed concerning injuries on the boy, leading to the arrests of Hanna McBride and Jose Manuel Villeda Gomez on felony charges of Neglect of a Dependent with Serious Bodily Injury.

Why it matters

This case underscores the critical role that alert medical professionals can play in identifying and reporting suspected child abuse, which can lead to important investigations and prosecutions to protect vulnerable children. It also highlights the serious penalties that can be imposed on those found guilty of harming dependent minors.

The details

According to the Bartholomew County Prosecutor's office, the investigation found that the 2-year-old boy had suffered two broken ribs and was covered in external injuries in various stages of healing. In February, Villeda Gomez pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 16 years in prison, with 10 years to be executed. McBride pled guilty last summer and was sentenced to 12 years, with 8 years to be executed.

  • The investigation began in October 2023 when medical personnel at Nexus Park noticed the boy's injuries.
  • Villeda Gomez pleaded guilty in February.
  • Villeda Gomez was sentenced to 16 years in prison last week.
  • McBride pled guilty last summer and was sentenced to 12 years in prison.

The players

Jose Manuel Villeda Gomez

A man who pleaded guilty to felony charges of Neglect of a Dependent with Serious Bodily Injury and was sentenced to 16 years in prison, with 10 years to be executed.

Hanna McBride

A woman who pled guilty to felony charges of Neglect of a Dependent with Serious Bodily Injury and was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with 8 years to be executed.

Nexus Park

A medical facility where personnel noticed the concerning injuries on the 2-year-old boy and alerted authorities.

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What’s next

The judge's decision on whether to allow Villeda Gomez out on bail is expected on Tuesday.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of medical professionals being vigilant in identifying and reporting suspected child abuse, as their actions can lead to critical investigations and prosecutions to protect vulnerable children from harm.