Kelly Lewis (Hamilton County Jail).

Kelly Lewis, aged 52, has been charged with felony child endangerment. According to police reports, the Cincinnati Enquirer revealed that the alleged neglect took place between April and August at her residence in Cheviot. School staff noticed the boy’s deteriorating condition and contacted Hamilton County Job and Family Services.

Authorities discovered that the child had lost approximately 14% of his body weight, resulting in a hospital stay of nearly a month. Reports indicate that he was seen scavenging for food in trash cans and consuming dishwater. The prosecution described Lewis’ alleged neglect as a “severe violation of trust.”

During her arraignment, Lewis’ lawyer highlighted her experience as a foster parent since 2007 and mentioned that she also cares for a 14-year-old child. The attorney explained that the boy suffers from various medical conditions, including seizures, and is nonverbal. Lewis allegedly adhered to a nutritionist’s advice by providing the boy with specific protein shakes, according to her legal representation.

At her arraignment, Lewis’ attorney said she has been a foster parent since 2007. She is also caring for a 14-year-old. The attorney said the boy had several medical issues including seizures. He also is nonverbal. Lewis was following the recommendation of a nutritionist by feeding the boy specific protein shakes, her attorney reportedly stated.

Lewis was arrested Wednesday morning and taken to the Hamilton County Jail on a $50,000 bond which she posted on Thursday afternoon, according to records. The defendant will be wearing an ankle monitor and cannot contact the victim.

“Stay away from that kid,” Judge Bernie Bouchard reportedly told Lewis.

Authorities have not provided an update on the condition of the boy.

She has a court date scheduled for Nov. 17.