MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion County Grand Jury has issued felony charges against Blake Bates and Alyssa Smith, parents of an infant who tragically lost their life in a dog attack. The incident occurred on April 28, 2024, at the family’s residence on Miami Street in Marion.
Bates and Smith have been charged with Involuntary Manslaughter, Child Endangering, and Reckless Homicide. Both defendants were arraigned on these charges today in court.
Alyssa Smith is currently being held on a $50,000 bond, while Blake Bates faces a higher bond of $100,000.
Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Mark R. Weaver will lead the prosecution of this case, which will be presided over by Common Pleas Court Judge Todd Anderson. If convicted on all counts, both defendants could face a prison sentence ranging from 11 to 16.5 years.
Authorities are requesting that anyone in the Miami Street area with information about the aggressive behavior of the family’s pit bull, named “Kilo,” reach out to Marion Police Lt. Dylan Reese.
It is important to note that all defendants, including Bates and Smith, are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.