A mother from central Indiana, Tanya Boyd, is facing serious charges after her disabled teenage son, Ezekiel “Zeke” Sheppard, allegedly suffered from severe malnutrition while under her care.
Boyd has been charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury, a level three felony, according to Grant County Superior Court records.
The Case Begins
The investigation into Boyd’s actions started in 2021 when the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) became concerned about her son’s well-being. Zeke, who had cerebral palsy, was reported to be severely malnourished and experiencing stunted physical development.
In August 2022, at the age of 17, Sheppard was removed from Boyd’s care after suffering from “severe chronic and acute malnutrition,” court documents show.
At the time, Zeke weighed just 88.5 pounds, far below a healthy weight for someone his age. Once he was placed in a children’s facility, his health improved rapidly. His weight increased by 61%, and he even grew two inches. This rapid recovery highlighted just how severe his condition had been while under Boyd’s care.
The Tragic Outcome
Despite the improvements after being removed from Boyd’s care, Zeke’s story took another tragic turn. In September 2023, the Indiana Department of Child Services reached out to the Marion Police Department regarding Sheppard’s case. Unfortunately, Zeke passed away on June 11, 2025.
It remains unclear whether his death is directly related to the alleged neglect he suffered. His obituary reflects on the warmth and joy he brought to those around him despite his struggles, noting his love for country music and his constant companion, a stuffed alligator toy that helped him in bed.
The Charges Against Boyd
Boyd is currently facing serious legal consequences for her actions. She is charged with neglect of a dependent, which led to serious bodily injury. Her trial is set for December 15, with a pretrial conference scheduled a month before.
Boyd, who is not listed as an inmate, is expected to appear in court again in November for the pretrial proceedings.
The Investigation Continues
The case remains under investigation by law enforcement. While Boyd awaits her trial, the community is left grappling with the tragic death of a young man who had already suffered so much in his short life.
Boyd’s neglect of her son has sparked a strong reaction from the public, and the legal system will determine her responsibility for Zeke’s suffering and death.
