West Michigan woman could spend 10 years in prison for child abuse after 2-year-old's severe injuries

(WWJ) — A West Michigan woman has pleaded no contest to second-degree child abuse, a crime that could land her in prison for up to 10 years.

Tara Treesh of Ludington’s plea includes an agreement by the court to sentence her to 20 months to 10 years in prison in connection with the abuse of her then-2-year-old son, according to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office.

Treesh, 36, was charged in November 2022 with one count each of second-degree child abuse, maintaining a drug house and possession of meth.

The AG’s office says in December of 2021 Treesh brought her unresponsive toddler to Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital. Due to the severity of the boy’s injuries, he had to be transferred by helicopter to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids for intensive care and surgery.

Treesh claimed the boy may have fallen from his crib, but a pediatric specialist “indicated the injuries were not consistent with that type of fall,” according to Nessel’s office.

Treesh has since terminated her parental rights.

“Every child deserves to grow up in a loving, caring household, free from fear of abuse and trauma,” Nessel said. “Swift medical attention and legal actions have ensured that the child in this case is now in a safe environment. It is my hope that he can now begin the long process of healing and thrive.”

Nessel’s office did not release any other information about the abuse.

Treesh is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 24.