HIGH POINT, NC – A certified nursing assistant was arrested Friday on child neglect charges three weeks after her 13-year-old daughter was found dead in their home, which authorities described as being filled with trash and rotting food.
Kymberli Bowden, 44, faces three class H felonies in connection with her daughter’s October 13 death at their residence on East Farris Avenue. She is charged with two counts of child neglect and abuse with bodily injury and one count of failure to report a child’s death.
Officers discovered the teenager’s body during a welfare check at the home, where her twin brother was also present. The residence was found in deplorable condition with garbage and decaying food throughout, according to court documents.
Investigators also noted a hazardous gas stove that presented toxication risks to anyone living in the home. The conditions suggested prolonged neglect of basic household maintenance and sanitation.
The arrest warrant indicates Bowden “failed to provide adequate food and medical care” for her daughter, contributing to the girl’s death. Authorities have not yet released official autopsy results, which could provide crucial details about the cause and manner of death.
The case has drawn particular attention because Bowden worked as a certified nursing assistant, a profession that requires training in patient care and recognizing health emergencies. Court documents indicate she received funding for her role as a CNA, making her professional responsibility to provide proper care especially significant.
Each of the child neglect and abuse charges carries a maximum sentence of 88 months. The charge for failing to report the child’s death carries a maximum of 39 months. If convicted on all counts, Bowden could face more than 17 years in prison.
A judge set bond at $1 million, reflecting the severity of the charges. Bowden has been assigned a public defender and remains in custody awaiting trial.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to establish a complete timeline of events leading to the teenager’s death. Child protective services are also reviewing the case to determine if there were any prior reports or warning signs that may have been missed.
The twin brother’s current living situation has not been disclosed, though he is presumed to be in protective custody with other family members or state care while the case proceeds through the court system.
