MINGO COUNTY, W.Va. -- It's been almost a year since a fourth-grade student suffering from muscular dystrophy died in Mingo County
Now his parents are accused of neglect causing his death.
Friends of Zachary Baisden say despite being confined to a wheelchair, he was one of the most positive kids they knew.
Ten-year-old Zachary from the Merrimac area of Mingo County
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Teresa Maynard says doctors said he died because of complications with pneumonia. But after an investigation by the Mingo County Sheriff’s Department requested by the medical examiner's office, almost a year later his parents Scott and Brandi Baisden were indicted on child neglect causing their son's death.
Maynard says toxicology reports showed Zachary had been given high doses of over-the-counter cold medication, along with Zanax, which was prescribed to Zachary’s father.
Maynard says the combination caused Zachary to get even sicker and have serious problems with his lungs. Maynard says this began in October of 2011, seven months before his death.
Maynard says the couple has been placed on home confinement, and the father was granted a work release. Their bond was set at $50,000 each.
Maynard says the couple pled not guilty at their arraignment Monday.
The family says they have no comment at this time.
Their trial has been set for June 11.
