GUILTY: Uncle claimed abused 5-year-old who died with severe injuries was ‘self-harmer,’ injuries to scrotum were ‘self-inflicted’

A West Virginia man was convicted on Wednesday in the March 2020 death of his 5-year-old nephew.

WBOY reported that Keaton Boggs’ uncle, Peter Wodzinski, 32, was found guilty of the death of a child by parent, guardian, or custodian by child abuse. The boy’s grandmother and aunt, Michelle Boggs, 49, and Chasity Wodzinski, 29, are facing the same charges and remain jailed as they await trial.

Michelle Boggs and Chasity Wodzinski reportedly gained custody of Keaton Boggs following his father’s death in June 2019. The boy lived with the family for nine months before his death in March 2020.

Keaton Boggs died two days after Michelle Boggs and Chasity Wodzinski took him to the hospital. Doctors determined the brain injuries he suffered were irreversible. His death was ultimately ruled a homicide.

Prosecutors said Keaton Boggs’ injuries were in various stages of healing. He reportedly sustained bleeding on his brain and to his eyes, bruising all over his body, and ear trauma. He allegedly also had a laceration to his penile shaft and injuries to his testicles and inner thigh.

Peter Wodzinski allegedly told police that the injuries to the 5-year-old’s scrotum were self-inflicted. Prosecutors said four out of five doctor’s appointments were canceled in a nine-month span, presumably to hide the boy’s injuries.

On Wednesday, a doctor who examined Keaton Boggs in January said he observed bruises on the boy’s left eye and scratches on his face. The doctor said Michelle Boggs and Chasity Wodzinski claimed the injuries were caused by a dog, a chicken wire fence, and a toy hammer, according to WBOY.

University Hospital Center Dr. Stewart Godwin testified on Monday that Keaton Boggs’ injuries were the result of child abuse. The physician also said this was the worst child abuse case he has ever encountered.

Michelle Boggs and Chasity Wodzinski’s trials are scheduled to begin on April 19 and March 29, respectively. WBOY reported that Peter Wodzinski’s sentencing date is pending.

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