Scott Cleaver (Miami Township Police Department).
An Ohio father was indicted for allegedly causing his 10-year-old daughter's death after he refused a tracheotomy for her when she was having trouble swallowing.
Scott Cleaver, 48, stands accused of involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide and endangering children in the death of Rylie Cleaver, the Miami Township Police Department said in a press release.
Officers responded on Oct. 1, 2025, to the 10000 block of Aldora Drive for a report of a child's death. Cops have been largely silent on circumstances surrounding Rylie's death, but the Dayton Daily News obtained 911 dispatch records that may shed some light.
On that day, Cleaver called 911 to say his daughter was cold to the touch and did not have a pulse. He explained that his daughter had cerebral palsy and epilepsy and had a do-not-resuscitate order.
The dispatcher asked if the girl had any health issues and Cleaver reportedly said she had been having difficulty swallowing in recent weeks. He said he took her to a doctor.
"I was having concerns about aspiration," he reportedly said. "[The doctor] wanted to talk to me about a tracheotomy, and I just told him with everything she's been through we can't do that."
Authorities spent the next year investigating the case before presenting their findings to a Montgomery County grand jury, which led to the charges.
The indictment alleges that between March 1, 2025, and Oct. 1, 2025, Cleaver "recklessly" caused his daughter's death by creating a "substantial risk" to her health and safety.
Cops have declined to release further details.
"The department extends its deepest sympathies to Rylie's family and loved ones," the press release said. "Our department remains dedicated to seeking justice and ensuring those responsible are held accountable through the judicial process."
Cleaver was arrested on Oct. 29 and has pleaded not guilty. He remains in the Montgomery County Jail on a $1.5 million bond. His next court date is scheduled for Nov. 19.
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