MADISON COUNTY — An Elwood man has been sentenced for the death of his 2-year-old stepson in October 2018 while the boy was in his care.
A judge ordered Jacob Wootton, 29, to serve 52 years in prison after Wootton pleaded guilty in December to charges of neglect of a dependent resulting in death, possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia and habitual offender, online court records show.
Wootton was also ordered to pay $185 in court fees.
The toddler died in Wootton's care on Oct. 26, 2018.
Police responded to the 2700 block of South K Street in Elwood for an unconscious not breathing 2-year-old, according to a probable cause affidavit.
Wootton told police he left the toddler in a bathtub to check on a different child and forgot about him, then heard a thud.
When he returned to the 2-year-old, he was lying on his back, unresponsive, and his head was "dangling" off the back of the tub, according to the document.
Wottoon also said he tried running the toddler under cold water, beat on his face, patted him on the back, smacked him in the face, bit him on the cheek and tried CPR to keep him awake.
An autopsy found the child had multiple bruises that weren't consistent with a fall.
-
IMPD specialized teams recover nearly 2,000 guns in 2025
Newly released numbers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department highlight the significant impact of specialized teams working to reduce violent crime across the Circle City.
Carmel Police roll out new tech to protect officers during traffic stops
The Carmel police are introducing new technology to protect officers during traffic stops, following a weekend when three Indiana State Police vehicles were struck while parked on the roadside.
Holiday prices rise as tariffs and inflation hit retailers and customers
The most wonderful time of the year could soon become the most expensive as retailers and customers alike deal with rising inflation, new tariffs and higher operating costs this year.
Monroe County cancels homeless camp eviction on county-owned land
Monroe County hoped to remove a homeless community between Switchyard Park and RCA Community Park before Christmas. Instead, the tents will remain for the foreseeable future.
