Here is the Press Release from the Atlantic Police Department issued today (Friday, Aug. 22nd), with regard to an ongoing investigation into a local woman and case of Child Endangerment and possible fraud.

“At approximately 3PM on August 21st authorities received information of a possible case of child abuse. An investigation was initiated by the Atlantic Police Department, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa Department of Human Services. All three departments participated in the investigation and were later joined by the Cass County Attorney as the case began to unfold.

The preliminary investigation centered around Leatha Kaye Slauson, age 30, of Atlantic, Iowa who has for some time claimed that her five-year-old daughter is suffering from cancer, and who in recent months has alleged that the child is terminal. The preliminary results of the investigation indicate that the child does not suffer from any life threatening illness. At this point the investigation has resulted in Mrs. Slauson being charged with one count of felony child endangerment. Mrs. Slauson is currently being held in the Cass County jail on the above charge as the investigation continues. Early stages of the investigation indicate that Mrs. Slauson is the only person involved in this matter.

During the past year the local community, as well as others around Cass County and beyond, have rallied together to help the family financially, and to make what was believed to be the child’s remaining time as enjoyable as possible. Individuals and organizations within the community have organized fundraisers and a trip to Disney World in order to assist the family through what was believed to be a difficult time.

As of this time investigators would discourage citizens from making further contributions to the Super Riley Fund. While those of us involved in the investigation know that this turn of events will greatly impact people within our area and beyond, we are proud that it is typical for our residents to rally to the aid of those among us who face devastating illness or circumstances. As this investigation unfolds it is our hope that the soft hearts of our residents can heal and once again be eager to give of their time, finances and prayers for those in need.

It is important to remember that any person charged is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Respectfully,
Chief Stephen Green, Atlantic Police Department
Sheriff Darby McClaren, Cass County Sheriff’s Office
Daniel Feistner, Cass County Attorney”