Keith M. Casper, 42 of Merrill- was charged October 27 with Felony-Child Abuse-Intentionally Causing Bodily Harm.
According to court records, the Merrill Police Department received a child abuse referral on October 26, from the Lincoln County department of Social Services. The referral alleged Kasper struck an 8-year old female in the face, causing significant bruising still evident 8 days later. According to staff at the elementary school which the victim attends, Kasper had attended a Parent/Teacher Conference at the school on October 17. During the conference, Kasper reportedly became very angry about information being discussed and reportedly left the conference still very angry. The victim was then absent from school until October 25 triggering concern from staff. When the victim returned to school on October 25, she reportedly displayed a ‘yellow’ bruise on her cheek compared to the size of a silver dollar.
The victim reportedly gave varying accounts to school staff, as to the cause of the bruise.
Upon contact with Lincoln County Social Services, the victim ultimately disclosed to a social worker of Kasper being very angry with her on October 18 and striking her in the face with an open hand.