Bond set at $1 million for Beatrice man accused in baby’s death

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — A 27-year-old Beatrice man accused in a fatal child abuse case appeared in court Wednesday.

Gage County Judge Jeffrey Gaertig set Austin Meyn’s bond at $1 million. Meyn must pay 10% of that — $100,000 — to be released.

Court documents say a 4-month-old baby died on Aug. 15 after Meyn intentionally limited his oxygen.

Meyn laid the boy face down on a bed in an effort to stop his crying, according to the Beatrice Police Department.

Police said the baby’s mother, Ashlen Zitel, knew of her boyfriend’s methods but did not question them.

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An autopsy also found that the infant had broken ribs and bleeding in the brain, an arrest affidavit says.

Police said those injuries are consistent with shaken baby syndrome.

Meyn is charged with intentional child abuse resulting in death and negligent child abuse resulting in death, both felonies.

His next court appearance is set for Sept. 27.

Zitel is facing charges of negligent child abuse resulting in death, a felony, and child abuse with no injury, a misdemeanor.

Her bond was set earlier this week at $250,000. She is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 15.