Appleton, Wis. – A local courtroom heard the conviction of Walter Goodman, 48, on three counts of chronic child neglect and false imprisonment. The verdict follows the harrowing discovery that his teenage daughter was hospitalized weighing only 35 pounds.
Charges and Conviction
Goodman pleaded no contest to chronic neglect of a child resulting in great bodily harm, chronic neglect causing emotional damage, and false imprisonment. Sentencing is set for Feb. 2.
Family Members Also Sentenced
Three other adults involved in the case received prison terms: Melissa Goodman, the father’s wife, was sentenced to 15 years; Savanna LeFever, Melissa’s daughter, awaits sentencing on Dec. 3; and Kayla Stemler, LeFever’s partner, received an eight‑year term.
Victim’s Statement
During Melissa Goodman’s sentencing, an audio recording of the teen’s statement was played. She said, “You really ruined my childhood, and it hurts that you did. You isolated me from my family, the only ones who actually cared. You had the choice to help when I needed it, but instead you joined in on the abuse and neglect. So I hope you have fun in jail because that’s where you need to be.”
Details of Abuse
The criminal complaint notes that Goodman called 911 in August 2025, reporting his daughter was lethargic, moaning and nearly comatose. The first responding officer described the girl as appearing six to eight years old, despite her being 14. Hospital staff confirmed she weighed less than 40 pounds, with doctors stating she was “very, very close to death” at 35 pounds.
Medical records indicated severe malnutrition, multi‑organ dysfunction, respiratory failure, cardiac issues, acute hepatitis and pancreatitis. A nurse told the victim she would receive three meals a day, prompting the teen to note that her father would be “so mad” because she ate too much.
Text Messages and FoodShare Claims
The complaint also included text messages from the defendants calling the victim “dummy” and “stupid.” Additionally, a message from Kayla Stemler claimed that Walter and Melissa had FoodShare benefits, suggesting they received assistance while the teen was starved.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services declined to comment on the specific case, citing privacy concerns.
Community Reaction
Local officials and community members expressed shock and condemnation, emphasizing the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable children. The case underscores the importance of timely medical intervention and the role of law enforcement in safeguarding families.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
