Judge rules in neglect case involving siblings of missing Bloomington baby

Posted on April 27, 2022

BLOOMINGTON – A McLean County judge has determined that two children, who are siblings of a missing Bloomington baby, were themselves neglected while being cared for by their mother.

Last month, Kimberlee Burton, 29, was found unfit to stand trial on criminal charges alleging she concealed the death of her seven-month old daughter, Zaraz Walker.

Authorities believe the baby is dead, although her body has never been found. Burton, under the care of the Illinois Department of Human Services, attended Tuesday’s hearing virtually, but nothing was said about the baby’s whereabouts.

Judge J. Brian Goldrick found the two other children were neglected due to Burton’s unresolved mental health issues, and that they were left alone for an unreasonable amount of time.

Other relatives are currently caring for the children, but the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is acting as their temporary guardian.

The judge has scheduled a hearing for June 23 to determine who will assume permanent custody of the children. The following day, the court is expected to decide if there’s been enough improvement in Burton’s condition that she can be tried on the criminal charges.

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