A 30-year-old Richmond, Indiana, woman has been charged with two felony counts of domestic battery after relatives say they noticed bruises on her two young daughters and turned over video evidence to police. Kasie L. Baldwin was charged Oct. 27 in Wayne Superior Court 2 with two Level 5 felony counts of domestic battery resulting in bodily injury to a person under 14, following allegations involving her daughters, ages 2 and 3.
According to the Pal-Item, Richmond, Indiana, police were first notified after relatives saw bruises on the girls' buttocks. A warrant for Baldwin's arrest was issued Wednesday, and court records cited by the outlet show she had no prior charges before this case.
Family Member Handed Over Video Evidence
The case against Baldwin relies in part on two videos that another member of her family gave to Richmond, Indiana, police, according to an affidavit described in the report. One video, recorded May 15, allegedly showed abuse, including harsh language and physical actions directed at the 2-year-old. A separate video reportedly showed Baldwin becoming upset with her daughters while combing one child's hair.
Per the court document cited in the article, Baldwin can be heard using harsh, profane language aimed at her 2-year-old daughter during the recorded episodes. The same document reportedly describes Baldwin smacking the toddler sharply on the back of the head and hitting her hands sharply, while also yanking the child's hair back hard.
Disturbing Statements Allegedly Captured on Video
The affidavit also reportedly captured specific statements Baldwin made toward her children. While untangling one child's hair, she reportedly said, “I hope it hurts. I really hope it hurts.” She also allegedly told one daughter, “I hate you, I really do,” and asked her 2-year-old if she wanted her buttocks beaten again. In another remark captured on video, Baldwin reportedly said, “If you're going to act like an idiot, I'm going to treat you like one.”
When questioned by police, Baldwin told officers she used a belt to spank both girls after becoming frustrated by their behavior, the outlet reported. Other adults interviewed by investigators told officers they were concerned by what they described as Baldwin's deteriorating behavior and anger issues.
What the Felony Charge Carries
Domestic battery resulting in bodily injury to a family or household member under 14 is classified as a Level 5 felony under Indiana Code § 35-42-2-1.3 when the offense is committed by an adult at least 18 years old. A Level 5 felony in Indiana carries a potential sentence of up to six years in prison.
Baldwin now faces two such counts stemming from the allegations involving her two daughters. The case remains in its early stages following the filing of charges in Wayne Superior Court 2 this week.
