Becker County (trfnews.i234.me) — Alexandria Rose Burley, 28, of rural Detroit Lakes, has been sentenced in Becker County District Court.
She was sentenced on gross misdemeanor counts of child endangerment and neglect.
A felony charge of endangering a child was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
The case stems from injuries found on Burley’s 3-year-old son, according to court records.
Preschool Report and Hospital Visit
Court records say police were sent to a Detroit Lakes preschool on the morning of Sept. 23, 2024.
Staff reported the child had severe bruising on the back of his head and neck.
The child was placed on a medical cot by St. Mary’s EMS staff.
He was then taken to St. Mary’s Emergency Room.
A preschool teacher went along, records say.
An investigator later spoke with Burley.
Records say she reported seeing only a small mark on the child’s earlobe.
She said she did not know how the injuries happened.
Doctor Raises Concerns
An ER doctor told the investigator the injuries appeared more serious than self-harm.
The doctor said the child had bruises in different stages of healing, records say.
That suggested the injuries happened over time.
After more checks, the doctor said the child had a fractured skull.
The doctor also noted possible spinal injuries and anemia.
The child was transferred to a Sanford trauma center in Fargo, records say.
The child has since been removed from Burley’s care, according to the records summary.
Investigation Details
During a search of Burley’s home, her boyfriend denied harming the child, records say.
He told investigators he saw Burley push the child off a porch, according to the complaint.
Investigators asked Burley about the days leading up to Sept. 23, 2024.
Records say she claimed she was home with the child the whole time.
She reported only a short trip to the store.
When asked about texts mentioning drinking, Burley described a fall on a porch, records say.
She said she tripped over long pants and fell onto concrete.
She also said she bumped the child and he fell off the porch.
She admitted she had been drinking that evening, records say.
Later medical records from Fargo included notes that raised abuse and neglect concerns.
The records also referenced THC as part of the concerns, according to the complaint summary.
Sentence and Court Conditions
A Becker County judge sentenced Burley to 364 days in the Becker County Jail.
The court stayed 319 days for two years, with credit for two days served.
The court also imposed a $500 fine and $85 in court fees.
Burley was ordered not to drink alcohol or use drugs.
She was also ordered to complete assessments and evaluations.
She must follow all recommendations, including aftercare.
She was placed on supervised probation for two years.
For general court information, readers can visit the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
For child safety resources, see Minnesota child protection information.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News
