Missouri Mother Charged After Toddler Dies from Severe Neglect

Alyssa Wehmeyer, 21, is accused of not feeding her child for 43 hours, leading to the toddler's death from malnutrition and dehydration.

Alyssa Wehmeyer, 21, of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, has been charged with abuse or neglect of a child resulting in death after her 1-year-old child died from severe malnutrition and dehydration.
Authorities allege the child had not been fed for approximately 43 hours, and an autopsy revealed very little evidence of food in the toddler's stomach.
Wehmeyer reportedly told investigators she had a migraine and took medication that led her to nap, during which she did not feed or attend to the child for extended periods.
The child was found unresponsive on February 28, 2025, with blue lips and severe diaper rash blisters after being left unattended in a crib for nearly 19 hours.
Wehmeyer is being held at Scott County Jail on a $100,000 bond and faces a minimum sentence of 15 years if convicted. Her first court appearance is scheduled for March 6, 2025.