SLC Couple Faces Child Abuse Charges After Doctor Reports Injuries and Failure to Thrive

Salt Lake City Couple Faces Child Abuse Charges After Alleged Neglect

A couple from Salt Lake City has been charged with child abuse following reports of injuries and malnourishment discovered during a medical examination. The case highlights the serious consequences of neglect and the role of healthcare professionals in identifying signs of abuse.

Justus Robert Olsen, 26, and Cheyenne Mika Hokulani Olsen, 30, have both been charged with second-degree felony aggravated child abuse. Justus is also facing an additional Class A misdemeanor charge related to child abuse. The allegations stem from a series of concerning incidents involving a child who was reportedly not receiving adequate care.

According to court documents, a Salt Lake City Police Department detective received a report about child abuse and neglect on June 2, 2025. The report detailed two visits to a pediatrician that raised red flags. Although the child's exact age is not specified, the medical findings suggest a pattern of neglect and possible physical harm.

In October 2024, a pediatrician noted that the child was unable to maintain weight and issued a "failure to thrive" report. The child did not return for another appointment until May 30, 2025. During this visit, the doctor observed bruising on the face, thigh, and lower back, as well as bleeding between the toes. The doctor referred the case to the emergency room and reported the injuries to the Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS).

On the same day, a DCFS case worker visited the Olsens’ home to investigate the injuries. Justus Olsen claimed the bruises were caused by the child’s crib and suggested that the family had genetic disorders that made them prone to bruising. He also stated that the child was fed adequately but could not gain weight.

The next day, the child was taken to Safe and Health Families for further evaluation. Doctors found a fracture in the child’s left humerus and ulna, along with bruising on the cheek, thigh, and lower back. These injuries were consistent with inflicted trauma. Additionally, the child’s low weight was attributed to a lack of sufficient food intake. Once admitted to Primary Children’s Hospital, the child began gaining weight.

A family member of Justus Olsen expressed concerns about the child’s health and had previously noticed bruises. She mentioned that the couple was “too strict” and that she was the only one purchasing formula and diapers for the child. She also offered to take the child to the hospital after the pediatrician’s appointment, but Justus Olsen declined, claiming he couldn’t go because the family member was his ride.

A family friend also reported seeing bruises on the child, which were becoming more frequent over time. She shared photos with police showing the child’s injuries. In conversations with law enforcement, Cheyenne Olsen described Justus as the primary caregiver and a stay-at-home parent.

Facebook Messenger messages between the couple revealed troubling behavior. Justus allegedly threatened to “hit their other child for shoving food in [the child’s] crib” and locked the other child in their room. He referred to himself as the “warden” for his disciplinary actions. Cheyenne Olsen, meanwhile, criticized Justus for lying and neglecting the child’s needs, calling him “lazy and neglectful” for the past six months.

During the child’s hospitalization, Cheyenne Olsen allegedly sent a message to Justus asking if he needed to “pack and dip” and flee the state.

A warrant was issued for Justus Olsen’s arrest on July 18, and he was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on July 25. He posted bond shortly after and is scheduled for an initial appearance on August 11. Cheyenne Olsen’s initial appearance is set for August 18.

It is important to note that these charges are allegations, and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The case underscores the critical role of healthcare providers, social workers, and concerned family members in identifying and addressing child abuse.