INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – The man charged in connection with the murder and rape of a one-year-old girl has been placed on suicide watch at the Owen County Jail, WISH has learned.
Owen County Jail Commander Marjie Ryan told WISH that is “normal anytime there is a risk” and that jail staff is “keeping a close eye” on Kyle Parker, the 22-year old man charged in the death and sexual assault of 15-month old Shaylyn Ammerman.
Prior to his arrest, Parker’s stepfather told police that while he was on his way to Indianapolis for an interview with authorities, Parker indicated that “he was not going to prison for the rest of his life and was going to commit suicide,” the court records state.
“Because of the serious nature of the crime, we want to watch him until he can be evaluated by a professional,” Owen County Jail Commander Marjie Adams said. “He is under constant surveillance.”
Ryan said that Kyle Parker has been placed in a padded cell with a special heavy-weighted smock that will not tear, she said. He has no contact with other inmates. Ryan said that her jail staff is conducting 15-minute checks on Parker.
“If he is asleep during third shift they will go in there and wake him up to make sure he is still alive. There is both verbal and visual contact,” Ryan said.
The 15-month old victim, Shaylyn Ammerman, went missing March 23 from her father’s home in Spencer, Ind. Her body was located the next day in a rural wooded area near the White River. Court records indicate that Kyle Parker told authorities where they could find Ammerman’s body.
Court records also show that Parker confessed to his stepfather of being responsible for the child’s death. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf during a court appearance Monday.
Parker is being held in the Owen County Jail with no bond. He is due back in court in May. His trial is scheduled for August.