A 29-year-old West Price Hill woman accused of beating and choking a 13-year-old over unfinished chores pleaded not guilty Wednesday, after prosecutors outlined a graphic list of injuries that included a fracture. The incident unfolded inside a home on Gilsey Avenue on January 16, according to authorities, and ended only after the injured teen escaped to a neighbor's house for help.
Investigators say the child was taken to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center for treatment following the attack. Formal charges were filed this week, moving the case from police investigation to the courtroom, where the defendant entered her plea.
Prosecutor's Account
As reported by FOX19, the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office says the violence erupted after Napier became angry that the 13-year-old had not completed household chores. Prosecutors allege Napier struck the teen with both a belt and a curtain rod, then punched, bit and strangled the child.
According to that account, the teen managed to break away and run to a neighbor, who called emergency services. First responders then took the child for medical care.
County Prosecutor Responds
In a statement to FOX19, Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich called the allegations "deeply disturbing" and said, "We will pursue these charges aggressively and seek accountability." She also praised the neighbor who stepped in and urged residents to speak up if they suspect a child is being abused so authorities can act quickly.
Charges And Legal Implications
Napier faces multiple counts, including endangering children, felonious assault, strangulation and domestic violence, according to the prosecutor's office. Under Ohio law, felonious assault is codified in the Ohio Revised Code at section 2903.11 and strangulation in the Ohio Revised Code at section 2903.18. Both are felony offenses that carry potential multi-year prison terms, depending on the degree and any specifications.
Prosecutors say that taken together, the charges could expose Napier to years behind bars if she is convicted.
What's Next In Court
Napier pleaded not guilty at her court appearance, and the case will now move through Hamilton County's pretrial calendar in the coming weeks. Court dockets will show upcoming hearings and any bond rulings as the case progresses. Prosecutors say they intend to pursue the case vigorously. A trial date has not yet been set.
Victim Care And Community Response
Authorities say the 13-year-old was treated at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center after the incident. Hamilton County prosecutors again highlighted the neighbor who called for help and urged anyone with information related to the case, or to possible ongoing abuse, to contact law enforcement to assist the investigation.
