Louisiana Woman Arrested for Alleged Medical Neglect of Child with Brain Tumor
SHREVEPORT, La. — A Shreveport woman has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including medical neglect, after allegedly failing to take her 6-year-old child to critical follow-up appointments following brain surgery. The child, who underwent surgery in October 2025 for a craniopharyngioma—a type of brain mass—required ongoing medical care to manage post-operative complications.
Details of the Case
According to the Shreveport Police Department, officers initially responded to a welfare concern on March 9, 2026, at the Louisiana State Office Building. The initial report originated from a caseworker with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), who had received information from multiple medical facilities regarding potential neglect.
The child was diagnosed with hypopituitarism, postoperative diabetes insipidus, and secondary adrenal insufficiency following the brain surgery, necessitating consistent medical follow-up. Hospital staff reported that approximately seven appointments were missed and six were canceled since the surgery, despite their efforts to contact the mother, 39-year-old LaShonda Zenon.
Custody and Arrest
A formal report of medical neglect was filed with DCFS on January 14, 2026. On February 26, 2026, DCFS obtained an order for custody of the child. Attempts to locate the child at a residence on Royalton Drive were initially unsuccessful.
On March 9, 2026, DCFS personnel observed Zenon inside the home, but she refused to answer the door or respond to phone calls. A judge subsequently issued an order on March 10, 2026, authorizing law enforcement to enter the premises.
When officers arrived at approximately 5:30 p.m., they observed Zenon attempting to flee with her children by climbing a six-foot fence. Zenon was arrested after a brief pursuit. The children were taken into DCFS custody and were reportedly crying, sweaty, and visibly shaken, with minor scrapes and cuts from the attempted climb.
Zenon’s Statement and Charges
Zenon told investigators she had received a phone call from an unknown number and believed police were nearby, prompting her attempt to evade authorities. She admitted to missing the child’s follow-up appointments, citing being “busy” and lacking time.
LaShonda Zenon is charged with possession of narcotics, resisting an officer by flight, obstruction of court orders, and controlled dangerous substances in the presence of juveniles.
Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect
If you suspect child abuse or neglect in Louisiana, you can report it 24/7 by calling 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437). Louisiana DCFS provides resources and support for child welfare.
Resources:
- Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services – Shreveport District
- Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services
- DCFS Caddo Parish – Child Welfare