Four members of a family from Zearing, Iowa, have entered pleas of not guilty to charges involving the severe abuse and kidnapping of an 18-year-old relative. According to court filings, the teenager was admitted to a hospital displaying signs of extreme malnutrition and injuries severe enough to cause brain bleeding.
The individuals charged include Gary Graham Jr., 44; Danielle Graham, 42; Aaron Williams, 20; and a 16-year-old girl. All are facing allegations of first-degree kidnapping and willful injury, with charges filed last month. Gary Graham Jr. submitted the final plea on Monday, court documents indicate.
While the 16-year-old has been charged as an adult, her identity is withheld due to her age. Her attorney has filed a motion to move her case to juvenile court. She is currently detained in a juvenile facility, whereas the other three are held in county jail.
The case came to light after medical staff at a hospital in Ames, Iowa, contacted authorities on January 27, reporting an 18-year-old male patient with multiple severe injuries. The medical report noted injuries at various healing stages, suggesting repeated abuse over time.
Authorities have accused the family members of intentionally confining and torturing the victim, resulting in significant harm. A protective order has been issued, barring the accused from contacting the victim and ensuring his safety.
Video Courtesy KCCI-TV News 8, Des Moines, Iowa
(All photos courtesy Story County Sheriff’s Department)
