WINDOM — A Marshall couple faces felony and gross misdemeanor charges of child endangerment after a child in their care was reportedly hospitalized for an accidental drug overdose.
Charges stem from an alleged Dec. 27, 2022 incident in Windom, while the child was staying with Kelli Jo Bush, 57, and Robert Bush, 67. According to the criminal complaint filed in Cottonwood County, the child’s mother spoke with Kelli Bush on the phone and was told the child was asleep.
The mother reportedly found this odd, as it was not the child’s usual naptime. Kelli Bush declined to wake the child when asked and eventually told the mother that the child had ingested some medication and CBD gummies, according to the report.
Over a video call, the mother reportedly saw the child was unconscious and not moving, and did not wake upon being shaken.
It was requested that 911 be called, but Robert and Kelli Bush reportedly said it wasn’t necessary. Additional family members were called by the mother, who then called law enforcement.
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Officers responded to the call and spoke with Kelli and Robert Bush. Kelli Bush reportedly told law enforcement that the child had taken a THC gummy approximately an hour and a half before. Robert Bush denied that the child had taken anything else, according to the report.
Officers observed that the child did not respond when spoken to, and was unable to open their eyes, but breathing appeared normal. When asked, Kelli Bush reportedly declined to take the child to the hospital, stating she didn't think it was necessary. Another family member arrived and agreed to take the child to the hospital.
Law enforcement allegedly heard Robert Bush tell the relative that the child had taken one of his medications along with the THC gummy, but that he didn’t know which one.
At the emergency room, the child tested positive for THC and appeared lethargic. They were diagnosed with accidental drug overdose and altered mental state, prior to being airlifted to Sioux Falls. They were admitted to a Sioux Falls intensive care unit for toxic encephalopathy.
Robert and Kelli Bush were issued orders for release in Cottonwood County, on conditional bail of $5,000 and $2,000, respectively. Both are scheduled to make their initial court appearances Feb. 7.
If convicted, Robert and Kelli Bush both face a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $10,000 fine, or both on the felony counts of child endangerment resulting in substantial harm. The gross misdemeanor charge of endangering a child carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.
Note: This article was written based on information reported by local law enforcement agencies. The Globe reminds readers that all individuals are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Southwest Crisis Center is available in our community to support and empower survivors of sexual and domestic violence. For questions about services or how you can help, contact the Southwest Crisis Center at 1-800-376-4311 or mnswcc.org .
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