An Ohio mother has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty in the death of her 7-year-old son, a case that shocked investigators who found the child severely malnourished despite food being present in the home.

According to reporting highlighted by Law&Crime and local authorities, 30-year-old Samantha Hardiman was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for the murder of her son, Kristopher Snyder. Prosecutors said the young boy, who had special needs, weighed just 19 pounds when he was discovered dead inside a playpen in the family’s Toledo home in June 2023.

Police responding to the residence made a disturbing discovery. Officers reported finding Kristopher alone in the playpen and described him as extremely emaciated. Investigators later learned the child had not seen a doctor in person for roughly four years, instead receiving only telehealth visits.

A medical examiner ruled the death a homicide caused by malnutrition and dehydration, noting that the child also had cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Prosecutors said those conditions required regular care and medical attention that Kristopher did not receive.

Authorities noted that the home contained ample food, raising further questions about how the child’s condition had deteriorated so severely. Investigators also said windows in the home had been painted black, allegedly concealing the living conditions inside.

Lucas County Prosecutor Julia Bates said multiple resources had been available to help the boy. According to officials, free therapy programs were offered that could have helped Kristopher develop the ability to eat and sit upright. Instead, prosecutors argued, the child was left alone in a room without proper care.

Hardiman pleaded guilty earlier this month to murder as part of a plea agreement that resulted in several other charges, including involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment, being dismissed. Although she will become eligible for parole after 15 years, prosecutors say they plan to oppose her release.

The case is not fully closed. Hardiman’s boyfriend, 29-year-old Joshua Mulvey, who lived in the home for roughly two years, is also facing charges including involuntary manslaughter. His trial is scheduled for May.

Authorities say the tragedy highlights the importance of recognizing signs of neglect and ensuring vulnerable children receive the care and medical attention they need.