LAGRANGE COUNTY – Two Howe residents have been arrested following an Indiana State Police investigation into serious injuries sustained by an infant.
The investigation began after the infant was taken to a hospital for medical treatment on July 17, 2026. After receiving information concerning the nature of the infant’s injuries, the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from Indiana State Police Indianapolis District Detectives, who assumed the lead on the investigation.
The results of the investigation were submitted to the LaGrange County Prosecutor’s Office. Criminal charges were subsequently filed, and arrest warrants were issued for:
Spencer Slentz, 20, of Howe, was arrested on August 21, 2026, on one count of neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury, a Level 1 felony.
Paige Barrett, 19, of Howe, was arrested on August 28, 2026, on one count of neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury, a Level 1 felony.
The investigation remains ongoing. No additional information concerning the infant’s injuries or medical condition will be released at this time.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
