Couple pleads innocent in child abuse case
Posted: Wednesday, August 20, 2003
ANCHORAGE A Fort Richardson couple accused of nearly starving their 4-year-old daughter to death pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of first- and third-degree assault.
Superior Court Judge Dan Hensley set a preliminary trial date in October for Anthony and Juanita Kirkland.
Police said the girl was malnourished and weighed about half what a child her age should when her parents took her to a hospital. Doctors said her condition was the result of deliberate long-term starvation.
The couple have two other children, who officials said have been moved to safety.
The Kirklands, both 25, are free on $2,500 bail each.