MENOMONIE, Wis. — A mother in Wisconsin faces serious charges, including attempted first-degree intentional homicide, after her 7-year-old son allegedly escaped from their home following a violent encounter on July 20. The incident occurred just two hours after police conducted a welfare check at the residence, a check that did not provide sufficient grounds for an emergency mental health intervention, according to a criminal complaint.
Emily Spalding, 37, is the subject of the criminal investigation stemming from two separate police responses to her home on Kausrud Street. Initially, officers responded to reports from neighbors who expressed concerns about Spalding’s alarming behavior. When police arrived, Spalding denied any erratic conduct and characterized the complaining neighbors as the source of the problem, prompting law enforcement to leave after assessing the situation as secure. There were no visible signs of injury or an attack at that time.
However, just hours later, the scene had dramatically shifted. Police received a report of a child running in the street, covered in blood, claiming that his mother was pursuing him with a knife. Officers found the boy in a nearby restaurant, where he had sought refuge. Emergency personnel quickly evaluated the child, who had visible injuries, including a cut on his head.
According to the boy, while he was playing video games, Spalding allegedly attempted to stab him with a knife and later struck him with a hammer on his head. After managing to escape a second time, he ran to safety, believing his life was in danger. Medical professionals transported him to Mayo Clinic in Menomonie for treatment.
As investigators responded to the scene, Spalding was detained. Reportedly, she made unusual statements to officers, claiming that an external force had taken control of her body during the attack. While these comments have been documented, they do not constitute a formal psychiatric evaluation or offer a conclusion regarding her mental state.
Investigators subsequently secured a search warrant for Spalding’s home. Evidence collected included a butcher-block knife set, a hammer with a red substance suspected to be blood, and various personal items found outside the residence. Still, there is no evidence confirming these items’ connection to the alleged incident.
Concerned for the child’s safety, authorities contacted child protective services, with Spalding’s sister stepping in to take temporary custody of him. The sister provided insights into Spalding’s behavior leading up to the incident, noting unusual religious statements and a lack of self-care, which raised alarms for her.
The legal proceedings against Spalding represent complex issues, including the definitions of intent under Wisconsin law. While she faces significant charges, including classification as a Class B felony for attempted homicide and a Class C felony for child abuse, the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt if it goes to trial.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Spalding has been transferred to a mental health facility for evaluation, signaling potential concerns about her ability to participate in her defense. This assessment is separate from any determination regarding her guilt and focuses on her current capacity to understand the legal process.
The child has since been placed in temporary care, where he is receiving needed support following the traumatic event. As the case moves forward through the judicial system, the severe allegations against Spalding remain unproven, leaving crucial questions about accountability and mental health still to be addressed.