Montana couple charged with the death of their young child

LOCKWOOD — A Montana couple has been accused of causing the death of their 17-month-old daughter.

The Billings Gazette reported Thursday that 34-year-old Laura Elizabeth Mink and 37-year-old Ronald Aaron Mink each face one count of deliberate homicide in the death of the girl on March 7.

Lockwood police say they were called to the couple's home in the town near Billings around 2 p.m. and found the child dead.

Police say the couple gave inconsistent statements regarding events leading up to the girl's death, including saying they had put her to bed after giving her a bottle, although an autopsy showed no recent feedings.

Medical records also indicate the child was malnourished and dehydrated.

Online records do not say if the Minks have hired an attorney.