Attorney General's News Release

January 25, 2006

Attorney General's Office files charge of abuse of a child against Macon County woman

Macon, Mo. — The Attorney General’s Office today filed a felony charge of abuse of a child against Kathy Hyatt (DOB: 1-13-70) of Macon for allegedly shaking a baby under her care. The Attorney General’s Office was appointed special prosecutor in the matter after the Macon County Prosecuting Attorney recused himself on a conflict of interest.

The defendant is charged with abuse of a 1-year-old child who was under her care. On or about Dec. 9, 2004, the child whom Hyatt was baby-sitting was taken to a hospital. The Attorney General’s Office alleges the child’s injuries were consistent with having been shaken.

Abuse of a child is a class B felony under Missouri law, punishable by a term of imprisonment between five and 15 years. The charge against Hyatt is merely an accusation and, as in all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818