Seth Welch and his wife Tatiana, both 27, are accused of failing to seek medical treatment for their daughter over religious reasons.
A Michigan couple has been charged with murder as they stand accused of starving their 10-month-old daughter.
A judge told Seth Welch and his wife, Tatiana, both 27, they faced a life sentence with no possibility of parole if they are convicted.
They are accused of starving their infant daughter, Mary, who was found dead inside the Welch's farm near Grand Rapids on August 2.
His jaw dropped when the judge read off the charges, which include felony murder and child abuse, and she sobbed uncontrollably during Tuesday’s hearing.
The baby was so malnourished she had sunken eyes and cheeks and no pulse when paramedics found her at their home, according to officials.
Hours later, Seth Welch posted a message on Facebook saying: “Heart is absolutely shattered. Woke up to Mary dead in her bed this morning ... Just numb right now."
An autopsy found the cause of death was malnutrition and dehydration due to neglect by adult caregivers.
The parents reportedly told police they noticed the baby was “skinny and underweight" a month ago but did not seek medical attention because of their religious beliefs and a mistrust in medicine and the government.
Seth Welch’s Facebook page is are filled with rants against government, Disney characters, and even the "Harry Potter" series.
RELATED STORIES
