INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Authorities in Indianapolis have arrested two adults after a 3-year-old girl was found in critical condition, allegedly as a result of ongoing neglect and physical abuse.

Police responded to a home in the 7400 block of Waterfront Drive around 6 p.m. on Aug. 7, following a report of a small child in an unresponsive state. Upon arrival, officers discovered a three-year-old girl who appeared severely underweight, unresponsive, and covered in bruises. According to police statements, the child was described as soaking wet and limp.

Emergency medical workers transported the toddler to a nearby hospital, where she was treated for a brain bleed and other serious injuries. Medical staff reported her odds of survival were slim due to the extent of her injuries. The Indiana Department of Child Services quickly joined the investigation, alongside local officers and detectives.

The child’s father, Joshua Cajigas, 24, and his girlfriend, Mellie Jackson, 22, were both taken into custody in connection with the incident. They now face felony charges of neglect of a dependent resulting in catastrophic injury. In addition, Cajigas is charged with domestic battery causing serious bodily injury and battery causing serious bodily injury.

According to court records, both adults initially told police that the child had been injured when a dresser toppled onto her. However, authorities say Cajigas later acknowledged striking his daughter as a form of punishment. He reportedly admitted to forcing her to perform “discipline drills,” citing her alleged “disrespectful” behavior and frequent bed-wetting as reasons for the strict treatment.

The child’s biological mother told investigators she had previously raised concerns about her daughter’s safety while in Cajigas’ care. She said that despite alerting the court system about possible abuse before losing custody in May, her warnings were disregarded.

Family caseworkers and other officials have launched an inquiry into the events leading to the child’s hospitalization. The investigation explores not only the actions of those charged but also the response of agencies responsible for her welfare.

Court documents detail that the child was discovered in a dire physical state, prompting questions regarding the timing and adequacy of previous interventions. The official account indicates that the alleged mistreatment was ongoing and escalated before the night emergency responders were called.

No information regarding the child’s current medical condition or custody status has been released as of Wednesday. Both Cajigas and Jackson are currently detained as they await further proceedings. Their jury trial is scheduled to begin on Oct. 14.

The outcome of the upcoming trial may prompt renewed scrutiny of child protection systems and the handling of previous abuse allegations. Authorities continue to urge anyone who suspects child neglect or abuse to come forward and report their concerns to local law enforcement or child services agencies.