An Indiana police officer and his wife face felony child neglect charges after allegedly forcing their six-year-old daughter to stand outside in freezing temperatures while holding a disturbing sign targeting her brother.

Cody and Kylie Scott were charged with two counts of felony child neglect for an incident on January 19, when temperatures dipped to 18 degrees and their daughter was made to hold a sign that read, 'I want to stab and Kill my brother.' Witnesses reported the chilling scene, leading to a 911 call, while Cody Scott later defended the punishment, asserting that other methods had failed in addressing their daughter's behavioral issues. This disturbing case has raised serious questions about parental responsibility and the treatment of children with mental health needs.

According to reports, the incident involving the Scott family began on the evening of January 19. Witnesses described the child standing alone outside in the frigid weather, prompting immediate concern and action. A neighbor, alarmed by the sight, called emergency services to report the situation, highlighting the community's concern for the child's well-being.

The sign held by the young girl expressed violent thoughts, stating, 'I want to stab and Kill my brother — I even take an antipsychotic — If you need to give pity — then give it to the victims.' This alarming message raised eyebrows about the mental health challenges the child faces and the methods her parents are using to address them.

Cody Scott later admitted responsibility for placing his daughter in this situation. He defended his actions by stating that his daughter was required to go outside every 30 minutes for punishment but could return for short intervals to warm up. Scott claimed that this approach was his last resort, as he felt that physical punishment and other strategies had proven ineffective in managing her behavior.

In his remarks, Scott mentioned that his daughter had been undergoing therapy for three years and had a caseworker involved in her care. Nevertheless, investigators viewed these statements as an attempt to rationalize the harsh treatment the child experienced. The parents’ acknowledgment of their daughter's behavioral disorders and medication needs was seen as concerning given the circumstances.

The daughter’s prior experiences also sparked alarm; according to reports, she had previously been made to carry humiliating signs at school and during outings, suggesting a troubling pattern in her parents' disciplinary methods. These revelations prompted further scrutiny as they indicated a history of inadequate responses to her mental health challenges.

Cody Scott asserted that the girl's mental health issues were serious enough to necessitate hospitalization, claiming she had been admitted twice but was 'kicked out' both times. This assertion raises questions about the accessibility and adequacy of mental health support services available to children in crisis. It highlights the broader implications of resource availability and systemic support for families dealing with similar issues.

In light of the incident, the Logansport Police Chief confirmed that the department took swift action by handing over the investigation to the Indiana State Police 'within hours' of the 911 call. This decision underscores the police department's commitment to ensuring thorough investigation in cases involving child welfare and protection.

In accordance with standard procedures for such allegations, Cody Scott was placed on leave without pay during the ongoing investigation. As of March 12, after a hearing with the Logansport Board of Public Works, the suspension became official, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the importance of judicial review in cases involving public safety officials.

As this disturbing case progresses, it raises important conversations around parental accountability, the right methods of discipline, and the resources available for families dealing with childhood behavioral disorders. The outcomes of the investigation may have lasting implications not only for the Scott family but also for how similar incidents are approached by law enforcement and child protective services in Indiana and beyond.