In a tragic case from Claremont County, Ohio, the parents of a two-month-old baby boy have been charged following the child’s untimely death. Olivia Palmer and Daniel Bros each face felony charges of child endangering, which stems from allegations that they failed to provide a safe environment for their son, Jasper Miles Bros, who died on April 9, 2023.
Authorities reported that Palmer called 911, claiming her infant was unresponsive and had blood coming from his nose. He was transported to Claremont Mercy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The circumstances leading to Jasper’s death have raised significant concerns, as they suggest a preventable tragedy.
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation began after the 911 call. Detectives executed a search warrant at the family’s residence in the High View Estates mobile home park, approximately 26 miles east of Cincinnati. During their investigation, law enforcement seized various items, including drug paraphernalia and electronics, and conducted interviews with both parents and other individuals living in the home.
The sheriff’s report noted discrepancies between Palmer’s account of the events leading to Jasper’s death and the evidence gathered. Detectives discovered videos indicating that Palmer appeared to be impaired while co-sleeping with the infant in bed alongside Bros. In her statements, Palmer admitted to being intoxicated during the incident.
As a result of the findings, a grand jury returned an indictment against both parents on charges of child endangering, classified as a third-degree felony in Ohio. The statute defines child endangering as creating a substantial risk to the health or safety of a child by neglecting the duty of care, protection, and support. Notably, the charges do not include homicide or manslaughter related to the infant’s death, which has led to questions about the legal rationale behind the prosecution’s approach.
The case has sparked widespread discussion regarding the responsibilities of parents and the potential repercussions of substance abuse on child safety. Prosecutors have yet to clarify why more severe charges were not pursued, and legal experts suggest that the grand jury’s deliberations, which are typically conducted in secrecy, might provide insight into the decision-making process.
Both Palmer and Bros have pleaded not guilty and were released on bail after their initial court appearance. They are expected to return to court next month, where a trial date could be established.
The tragic death of Jasper Miles Bros serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by infants and the critical importance of parental responsibility in ensuring a safe living environment. The case continues to unfold as authorities seek to determine the full circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
