Indiana Mom, Boyfriend Charged in Toddler's Severe Abuse

3-year-old girl suffered life-threatening injuries, including internal bleeding and kidney failure requiring dialysis

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:54am

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An Indiana woman and her boyfriend have been charged with inflicting severe injuries on her 3-year-old daughter, who is now fighting for her life in a hospital. The toddler suffered lacerations to her colon and lower intestine, internal bleeding, acute kidney injuries requiring dialysis, and fractures to her nasal cavity and jaw. Doctors said the injuries were consistent with child abuse.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child abuse and neglect, which can have devastating consequences for vulnerable young victims. It also raises questions about the responsibility of caregivers and the need for stronger protections and interventions to prevent such horrific incidents.

The details

Police were called to the home on March 25 and found the girl on the floor, 'black and blue and bruised nearly all over her entire naked body and appeared to have been beaten.' The child was rushed to the hospital and then life-flighted to Riley Children's Hospital in Indianapolis, where doctors said her injuries were life-threatening. The mother, Kami Nelson, initially claimed the injuries were caused by the girl 'walking into door handles,' but she and her boyfriend, Lee O'Donnell Jr., later began blaming each other.

  • On March 25, police were called to the home and found the injured toddler.
  • On March 25, Kami Nelson was arrested.
  • On March 31, Lee O'Donnell Jr. was arrested.

The players

Kami Nelson

A 23-year-old Indiana woman charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury and neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury.

Lee O'Donnell Jr.

A 25-year-old man, the boyfriend of Kami Nelson, who has also been charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury and neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury.

Riley Children's Hospital

The Indianapolis hospital where the 3-year-old girl was life-flighted and is fighting for her life.

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What they’re saying

“I don't want to end up homeless.”

— Lee O'Donnell Jr., Boyfriend of Kami Nelson

What’s next

The judge will decide on the couple's bail amounts at a hearing on April 5.

The takeaway

This horrific case of child abuse highlights the urgent need for stronger protections and interventions to safeguard vulnerable children from such devastating harm. It also underscores the importance of holding caregivers fully accountable for the well-being of the children in their care.