Wyoming Woman Accused of Pouring Scalding Water on Child for Being ‘Ugly’

A 4-year-old Wyoming boy was flown to a specialized burn center with severe injuries after a woman allegedly attacked him for looking “ugly,” authorities said.

Cowboy State Daily reported on Monday, July 13, that Richellena Alana Vinita Lorraine Rule-Monroy, 26, was arrested last week and charged with aggravated child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury to the boy. According to Powell Tribune, Rule-Monroy and her own child were living with the young boy and his father — however, the father was reportedly out of town.

The case surfaced after Rule-Monroy brought the 4-year-old to Powell Valley Hospital on July 2, telling staff she had accidentally splashed him with hot water while making oatmeal the night before.

Medical staff grew suspicious when they found injuries well beyond the burn on his ear, including bruises, abrasions and wounds to his genital area, as per the outlet. A CT scan reportedly showed possible brain hemorrhages, a scalp hematoma and a fracture at the base of his skull.

After he was placed in protective custody, the boy allegedly told a certified foster parent that Rule-Monroy poured hot water on his ear because he was “ugly,” and said she had thrown him down the stairs, Law&Crime reported.

Child abuse specialist Dr. Kelly Christensen evaluated the boy and wrote that the findings suggest strongly “this child is likely to be a victim of physical abuse,” according to the Powell Tribune report.

His condition later worsened, and doctors flew him to the University of Utah Burn Center on July 8.

At a hearing on July 13, Park County Prosecuting Attorney Bryan Skoric said: “Either way, we’ve got serious injuries to a child.” Defense attorney Branden Vilos said Rule-Monroy intends to fight the charges, noting she has no criminal history and voluntarily reported to authorities before her arrest.

Judge Joey Darrah set bond at $125,000 cash or surety, as per Law&Crime.

Rule-Monroy is due back in court for a preliminary hearing July 22.