A heart-wrenching case of child abuse has shocked the community, as newly released probable cause affidavits reveal horrifying details about the severe mistreatment of 7-year-old Scarlett by her stepmother, Jennifer Marie Revis. The abuse was so violent that Scarlett was found unresponsive, covered in bruises, and in critical condition. Investigators and medical professionals are left in disbelief at the extent of the injuries, which have left Scarlett fighting for her life.
On December 2, 2023, first responders rushed to the home on West Commercial Street after a call reporting a child having a seizure. Upon arrival, they found Scarlett lying cold and unresponsive on a bed. Her body was covered in bruises from head to toe, including a dark bruise around her left eye, and extensive bruising across her face and body. Immediate action was taken to transport Scarlett to IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, where she was treated for severe blunt force trauma and other injuries.
The story of what transpired inside the home unfolded over the next few days, revealing a disturbing pattern of abuse. Initially, Scarlett’s stepmother, Jennifer Revis, claimed that the child had thrown herself to the ground after being bitten by the family dog. However, her explanation quickly unraveled during police interviews. Jennifer admitted to brutally beating Scarlett two days prior to the incident. She confessed to striking Scarlett multiple times in the face with an open hand, hitting her with a closed fist on the back and upper body, and even grabbing her by the neck. Jennifer described the moment as being triggered by her anger, which she said was “a thousand out of ten.” She also admitted to frequently punishing Scarlett simply because she didn’t like her. In a chilling revelation, Jennifer acknowledged waiting roughly 15 minutes before calling 911 after realizing the child was not breathing.
Scarlett’s father, Ryan Revis, was also questioned about the abuse. He confessed that he had known for at least six months that his daughter was being physically abused by his wife. He had seen the bruises on Scarlett’s body and noticed how she behaved fearfully around Jennifer. Despite witnessing these signs of abuse, Ryan failed to intervene, admitting that he was more concerned with preserving his marriage and feared that Jennifer would leave with their twin boys. Even after receiving a photo from Jennifer showing Scarlett’s bruised face—sent with a mocking message—Ryan took no action. He further confessed to having spanked Scarlett in the past and routinely accepted Jennifer’s explanations for the injuries.
Doctors at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital documented the extensive injuries Scarlett sustained, including bruising on her face, eyes, forehead, neck, and body, as well as signs of blunt force trauma to her lower body. The trauma was so severe that Scarlett was diagnosed with a severe brain injury. The medical team expressed their deep concern for Scarlett’s survival and recommended that her scans be reviewed by specialists at Riley Hospital for Children. One physician, fearing the worst, told investigators she didn’t believe Scarlett would survive.
At present, Scarlett remains unresponsive in the ICU, hooked up to a ventilator as doctors fight to stabilize her condition. Emergency procedures have been performed to relieve the pressure on her brain, but the prognosis remains uncertain. The severity of Scarlett’s injuries has left the community in shock, with many hoping and praying for her recovery.
In the wake of this harrowing event, Jennifer Marie Revis, 33, has been charged with aggravated battery, domestic battery, and neglect of a dependent. Her husband, Ryan Revis, 28, faces a charge of neglect of a dependent for his failure to protect Scarlett from the abuse. Both Jennifer and Ryan are currently being held in the Blackford County Security Center, with the investigation ongoing. Authorities have promised to release further details as the case progresses through the legal system.
The emotional impact of this case extends beyond the immediate family. The community is reeling from the revelation that such brutal abuse was allowed to continue for so long. Scarlett’s story is a tragic reminder of the vulnerability of children in abusive households and the devastating consequences when those entrusted with their care fail to protect them.
As the investigation continues, many are left asking how such cruelty could go unnoticed for so long. The scars left on Scarlett, both physical and emotional, are unimaginable, and the road to recovery—if she survives—will be a long and difficult one. For now, the community holds its breath, hoping and praying that Scarlett pulls through, and that justice is served for this innocent child.
In the days and weeks ahead, the family’s story will likely be a focal point in the ongoing discussions around child abuse and the failure of those in positions of trust to intervene. Scarlett’s case has exposed the horrifying reality that abuse often goes unnoticed, even by those who are supposed to protect the child. The need for vigilance, awareness, and intervention has never been more urgent.
As Scarlett fights for her life, we are reminded of the importance of standing up for vulnerable children, ensuring that no other child endures the same suffering that she has. Her fight is not just her own; it is a fight for justice and a call to action for all of us to protect the most innocent among us.
