Crime & Safety

Woman Who Lived in Merle Hay Mall Pleads Guilty to Neglecting Children

Kijua Beaudrie scheduled to be sentenced in October. Accused of standing by while husband sexually assaulted children.

A Des Moines mother who lived in Merle Hay mall at times has entered a guilty plea for neglecting three of her children.

Kijua Beaudrie, 35, pleaded guilty in Polk County court Thursday to three counts of neglect of a dependent person, according to WHO-TV.

Beaudrie allegedly stood by as her husband, James, sexually assaulted three of his nine children.

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Kijua’s sentencing is set for October 25th.

He maintains his innocence and is slated to go to trial on January 28th.

Find out what's happening in Urbandalefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

James Beaudrie, 36, was  on April 19 after a two-week nationwide search. He was extradited to the Polk County Jail on May 6, 

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