In a heartbreaking case from Indiana, a mother has been charged with neglect after her teenage son, who had cerebral palsy, suffered from extreme malnutrition. Authorities say the boy was removed from her care, showed improvement in a facility, and later passed away.
What Happened to Zeke?
Tanya Boyd, the mother of 17-year-old Ezekiel “Zeke” Sheppard, has been charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in serious injury — a Level 3 felony under Indiana law. The charges come after years of concerns about her son’s health and care.
Zeke had cerebral palsy, a condition that affects movement and muscle coordination. In 2021, the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) began investigating due to serious worries about his weight and development.
Signs of Neglect and Removal from Home
By August 2022, things had not improved. Zeke was removed from Boyd’s care after authorities found he was still suffering from “severe chronic and acute malnutrition.” He weighed just 88.5 pounds, which is far below normal for a 17-year-old.
Once placed in a specialized children’s facility, Zeke began to show signs of recovery. His weight increased by 61%, and he even grew two inches in height, suggesting that he had not been receiving proper nutrition or care at home.
Zeke’s Passing and Continuing Investigation
On June 11, 2025, Zeke sadly passed away. It is still not confirmed whether his death was directly caused by the earlier neglect, and the case remains under active investigation.
In September 2023, the DCS reached out to the Marion Police Department to help investigate further. Zeke’s story has deeply moved many in the community.
Remembering Zeke
Zeke’s obituary paints a picture of a loving and joyful boy who, despite his challenges, loved being spoken to, enjoyed country music, and always had a smile. One of his favorite items was a stuffed alligator toy that helped support him in bed.
He is survived by both his mother and father, though it is his mother who now faces legal consequences over his care.
Court Details and Trial
Tanya Boyd has filed bond paperwork but is not currently in jail, according to Grant County records. Her trial is scheduled to begin on December 15, with a pre-trial hearing planned for November. The legal process is ongoing, and authorities say the investigation is still active.
This case is a tragic reminder of how important it is to ensure proper care for vulnerable children, especially those with special needs. While Zeke is no longer with us, his story has raised awareness about the importance of monitoring and reporting suspected neglect. The legal system will now decide the fate of the person responsible for his care.
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