Toddler bashed to death by mother's boyfriend over potty training
The father of a two-year-old toddler has been left devastated after his son was allegedly bashed to death by his mother’s boyfriend.
Utah police told KTVX News it was believed the incident occurred over a potty training accident.
Jasmine Bridgeman and Joshua Schoenenberger are in police custody, charged with felony child abuse.
Police said. James Sieger Jr. died two days after he was beaten inside family home.
Ms Bridgeman, 23, allegedly told police that her boyfriend, Mr Schoenenberger, 34, got upset with James when he soiled his diaper instead of using the toilet.
Court documents say she told investigators that Mr Schoenenberger “smeared the poop from the diaper in (James’) face”.
While doing so, Ms Bridgeman went outside to smoke a cigarette.
It’s reported that on her return, James and Mr Schoenenberger were in the bathroom alone together and she could hear her son crying.
She told police she tried to open the door but it was locked.
She said she could hear her boyfriend hitting her son and yelling at the toddler to take a shower.
When Mr Schoenenberger unlocked the door she found the toddler vomiting on the floor.
KUTV News reported the pair took the toddler to hospital where they allegedly told doctors he had almost drowned in a bathtub.
It’s reported James was unconscious, covered in bruises and had trouble breathing.
Doctors told police he showed signs of a beating, not a drowing.
Despite undergoing several surgeries, James died.
His death devastated his father, James Sieger.
"Monday, May 11th has been the worst and most difficult day of my life," he told KUTV.
"He was the best kid. He was funny. He was very smart."
The accused are being held on child abuse charges.
Morning news break – May 15
