Detectives with the Jennings County Sheriff Office, were notified by the Indiana Department of Child Services about a report of alleged Child Neglect involving an 8-month-old female child . During the investigation Detectives discovered the 8-month-old child was suffering from severe malnourishment, hygiene related neglect, severe dermatitis, and developmental delays. It was determined at 8-months old the child weight approximately 9 pounds. The children in the home were removed by DCS, and placed with appropriate caregivers. Detectives executed multiple Interviews with Doctors, DCS Case workers, and several follow ups with the child.
During the interviews with Benjamin and Kayla, they both admitted to knowingly neglecting the child. Benjamin and Kayla advised Detectives during interviews that they were tired after work, and at times locked the child in a seperate bedroom for approximately 10 hours at a time so they could sleep.
At the conclusion of the investigation, Detectives requested an arrest warrant for Benjamin Tackett and Kayla T Thompson.
On November 5, 2025, Detective Garrett Hoppock and Detective Allen Ritchie, along with Deputy Ben Seastrom and Deputy John Hartman arrested Benjamin Tackett and Kayla Thompson.
Benjamin J Tackett charges:
Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury – Level 3 Felony
Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury – Level 5 Felony
2 Counts of Neglect of a Dependent – Level 6 Felony
Kayla T Thompson Charges :
Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury – Level 3 Felony
Neglect of a Dependent Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury – Level 5 Felony
2 Counts of Neglect of a Dependent – Level 6 Felony
*Information from the Jennings County Sheriff’s Office
WTRE reminds readers that all charges are merely allegations, and every individual mentioned is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
