A seven-year-old boy from Flint Township, Michigan, died weighing more than 18 stone (252 pounds) at a height of 4.2 feet, five times the average weight for his age. His parents, Damien and Jessica O’Brien, have been arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder, child abuse, and torture.
Heart failure at age seven
Casper died in November from heart failure, according to prosecutors. Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton described the case as one of extreme neglect. “On the face of it, this is cruel and extreme suffering from this child caused by the neglect of the parents. That is obesity. This child did not have a pediatrician, was only taken to the doctor I believe, according to the police report, once,” Leyton said.
Family had health insurance but neglected son
Despite the family having health insurance, Casper was rarely taken to a doctor. The morning he died, his parents took their dog to the vet. The O’Briens also have a five-year-old daughter. Neither child attended school, and Child Protective Services was unaware of their existence.
Hoarding conditions discovered
In November, the landlord attempted to enter the home due to concerns but was refused entry. Police later described the interior as a hoarding situation. The investigation continues as the parents remain in custody.
