A Lucas County jury has convicted an Ohio man in the heartbreaking death of a 7-year-old boy who starved to death — even though food was readily available inside the home.
Joshua Mulvey, 30, was found guilty Friday on charges of involuntary manslaughter and child endangerment in the June 2023 death of Kristopher Snyder, according to court records.
What Happened
When Toledo police arrived at a Freeman Street home on June 2, 2023, they found Kristopher — alone in a playpen — already dead.
The boy, who had cerebral palsy and epilepsy, weighed just 19 pounds. For reference, that is less than most healthy 1-year-olds.
Authorities described him as “completely emaciated.” An autopsy confirmed the cause of death as severe malnutrition and dehydration — ruled a homicide.
What Investigators Found
The case details are deeply disturbing:
- Kristopher had not seen a doctor in person for nearly 4 years
- His mother used only telehealth appointments
- The home’s windows were painted black — believed to hide his condition from neighbors
- Despite all this, investigators found ample food inside the house
The Mother’s Role
Kristopher’s mother, Samantha Hardiman, 30, was sentenced earlier this year to 15 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to murder.
Prosecutors said she had access to free therapeutic resources to help her son — who needed special support to eat — but chose instead to isolate and neglect him.
Mulvey’s Conviction
Prosecutors argued that Mulvey, who had lived with the family for roughly two years, had a legal duty to ensure the child’s basic needs were met — and failed to act.
Mulvey had previously maintained his innocence.
“I do not think I should be here in the first place,” he told the court during his arraignment.
He remains in custody at the Lucas County Correctional Center. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 27.
