An Oklahoma couple has been charged with felony child neglect after their 11-year-old daughter gave birth at home. Authorities say Cherie Walker, 33, and Dustin Walker, 34, failed to provide any medical care or supervision.
The girl was reportedly 36 weeks pregnant and had not seen a doctor in over a year. “I was horror-stricken to find out it’s an 11-year-old little girl who’s given birth,” said Muskogee County Assistant District Attorney Janet Hutson. “This child is traumatized. She’s been through a horrific ordeal.”
The baby was delivered without medical help on August 16 before the girl was later taken to hospital. Court records show the child and her siblings have since been removed from the home. The parents remain in custody with bond set at $100,000 each.
“This will affect her for the rest of her life,” Hutson added. Officials are now awaiting paternity test results and reminding the public to report any suspected abuse or neglect. Should communities do more to protect vulnerable children before tragedy strikes?
