Stepmother Arrested After Fatal Assault on Stepson

A stepmother has been arrested after allegedly causing the death of her 16-year-old stepson through physical abuse. The Jeonbuk Provincial Police announced on February 19 that they have detained a woman in her 30s, identified as A, under the Special Act on the Punishment of Child Abuse Crimes for child abuse resulting in death. According to police reports, A took her stepson, B, to a hospital in Iksan, Jeonbuk, on January 31, claiming he was in poor condition. Unfortunately, B later died during treatment. Medical staff discovered signs of abuse on B's body and reported it to the authorities. After being initially released due to a rejected arrest warrant, A was able to evade detention a second time due to clerical errors by the prosecution and police. However, a third warrant was issued, leading to her current detention. During police questioning, A reportedly admitted to hitting her stepson but claimed she did not intend to cause his death. A police spokesperson stated, 'The evidence of criminal charges has been established, leading to the issuance of the arrest warrant. We will promptly investigate any additional offenses by A before forwarding the case.'