A 24-year-old Indiana woman is now facing murder charges following a months-long investigation into the death of her own infant, state police confirmed.
Chantel Cunningham, of Shipshewana, was arrested and charged with murder and neglect of a dependent causing death, according to Indiana State Police detectives. The charges came months after investigators were first called to her home.
The investigation began on April 6, when Indiana State Police detectives responded to a residence in Shipshewana after an infant was found dead inside. The identity of the child and the exact circumstances leading up to the discovery have not been made public by authorities.
Investigators spent several months building their case before formally charging Cunningham. Officials have not publicly disclosed the infant’s cause of death, stating only that the investigation remains ongoing.
The nature of the neglect alleged in the charges — and what, if anything, witnesses or other evidence revealed during the probe — has not been released by police at this time.
Cunningham faces two serious felony charges: murder, which carries a potential sentence of 45 to 65 years in Indiana, and neglect of a dependent resulting in death, which is a Level 1 felony punishable by up to 40 years in prison.
The case has sent shockwaves through the small community of Shipshewana, a rural town in LaGrange County known for its Amish heritage and quiet character.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to contact the Indiana State Police. The investigation is active and additional charges or details may be released as the case proceeds through the court system.