INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis father has been convicted of the death of his 28-day-old son in 2019.
Michael Gaunt was convicted of aggravated battery and neglect of a dependent resulting in death during a one-day trial on Monday. Both charges are Level 1 felonies.
On Dec. 20, 2019, IMPD officers were dispatched to the 4900 block of Rockville Road on the city’s west side in response to a child not breathing. When officers arrived they found 28-day-old Leo Grant unresponsive.
The infant was taken to an area hospital where he later died on Dec. 23, 2019.
On the same day as the infant's death, the Marion County Coroner found that the baby boy had died as a result of multiple blunt force trauma and ruled the case a homicide.
During the investigation, the child's mother claimed she left the home on the day the child sustained the injuries and when she returned, Gaunt didn't allow her to call for help.
“As a parent, it is unimaginable that an individual could commit a crime on an innocent child. While nothing constitutes this tragic loss of life, this verdict is the first step in holding Mr. Gaunt accountable for his actions,” said Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears in a statement following the conviction.
Gaunt's sentencing hearing is set for Wednesday, May 25 at 2 p.m.
-
Indiana special session may force hurried, expensive changes for county clerks
In just a week, lawmakers will be back at the statehouse for a special session, and the price tag for that session — as well as the burden it could place on local clerks’ offices — could be steep.
Indy teachers receive free mental health counseling through Colts partnership
Teachers at schools around Indianapolis are getting new mental health support through a partnership aimed at preventing educator burnout.
Carmel High School's new polytechnic wing emphasizes hands-on learning
The new polytechnic wing at Carmel High School features state-of-the-art facilities that mirror real workplace environments.
Bloomington awarding grants for ideas to encourage bicycle riding
Do you have an idea to get more people moving on two wheels in Bloomington? The city may award you some money for it.
