LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Two Louisville parents already charged in a major child abuse case are now facing additional charges related to alleged animal cruelty, court records show.
Nicholas Shanks and Shelby Kuntz were arrested last month in connection with severe injuries suffered by two young children. Prosecutors on Tuesday added charges of cruelty to animals and torture of a dog or cat.
Both defendants appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to the new charges, as well as multiple counts of child abuse.
According to police reports, hospital staff alerted authorities after a 2-year-old child was treated for serious injuries, including a skull fracture, broken ribs and extensive bruising. Medical personnel reported the injuries were consistent with abuse.
Investigators later searched the couple’s home, where police found a 1-year-old child with additional severe injuries, including skull fractures and a broken jaw.
Prosecutors described the case as significant, citing the alleged harm to both children and animals. The investigation remains ongoing.
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