Father Sentenced in Evansville Rat Bite Case

David Schonabaum from Evansville, Indiana, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for child neglect after his six-month-old son was found with over 50 rat bites, leading to severe disfigurement. The incident occurred in September 2023 when police discovered the infant in a 'house of horrors,' severely injured and requiring a blood transfusion and extensive medical care. Schonabaum was convicted of neglecting a dependent, while his wife, Angel, pleaded guilty to a lesser charge and awaits sentencing. The child's aunt, Delaina Thurman, received two years of probation. Prosecutors highlighted the horrific living conditions, including rodent infestation and unsanitary surroundings, which had been previously reported to child services. Despite being warned multiple times to improve conditions, the family failed to act, resulting in this tragic incident.