Amish Healer Faces Manslaughter Charges After Tragic Baby Death

A man from Missouri, known as a healer to the Amish community, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after allegedly giving ineffective treatment to a sick baby.

Charges Against the Healer

Sam Shetler was arrested in March for various unrelated crimes, including sex trafficking and kidnapping. Amid investigations, he was connected to the death of a 6-month-old boy found unresponsive at his rural retreat in Booneville, Missouri.

The Incident Details

The parents sought Shetler's help when they noticed their son's condition worsening. According to an affidavit reviewed by Law & Crime, he performed a "lavender breathing treatment" before sending them home. The baby later appeared unresponsive, leading the parents to a neighbor for help contacting emergency services.

Investigation Findings

An autopsy showed the baby had several viral infections; his cause of death was pneumonia complicating polyviral respiratory infection. Investigators learned about this after Shetler's other charges were filed. A former employee stated that Shetler discouraged traditional medical treatment and favored alternative methods.

Shelter is held without bond at Cooper County Jail, awaiting his next court appearance on May 13. It remains unclear if he has legal representation or entered a plea for any of his charges.