CINCINNATI, OH – A 35-year-old man from Ohio is facing serious legal charges after allegedly leaving his 2-year-old son, who has special needs, home alone for several hours.
Authorities apprehended Joshua Merz earlier this month, indicting him on two counts of child endangerment – one a felony and the other a first-degree misdemeanor.
Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich has strongly condemned Merz’s actions. “Leaving a 2-year-old unprotected is unacceptable,” she asserted, emphasizing the legal system’s duty to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
The alleged incident occurred on April 8 when deputies responded to a report of a young child left unattended in a residence on Zion Hill Road. Officials found the home in disarray, describing it as unsanitary and potentially hazardous.
The indictment accuses Merz of restraining the child in a manner both excessive and reckless, creating a significant risk of harm. The details of the child’s specific needs remain undisclosed.
Merz was released from custody after posting 10% of his $25,000 bail. While the initial tip to law enforcement was attributed to a neighbor, it was later revealed that Merz’s own father, Bruce Merz, made the report to 911. In an emotional statement, Bruce admitted the difficulty but necessity of his decision, acknowledging his son’s missteps.
Audio from the 911 call reveals Bruce Merz informing the dispatcher about the child’s situation. The dispatcher noted the child’s previous discovery, locked in a room by a third party.
Should Merz be convicted on both charges, he faces up to three and a half years in prison and a fine as steep as $25,000. As the case proceeds, it underscores the critical responsibility of ensuring child safety and the severe consequences of neglect.