Attorney in Madison torture case claims client has kidney problem

Melinda Drabek-Chritton

MADISON — A Madison woman accused of starving and locking her step-daughter in a basement made another court appearance Monday, April 23rd.

Melinda Drabek-Chritton’s attorney claims the woman lost 90 pounds while in jail since she was arrested due to a deteriorating kidney. A doctor said Drabek-Chritton has not lost that much weight, and has been refusing treatment from medical staff.

Drabek-Chritton and her husband, Chad Chritton, face several charges, including child abuse and child neglect. They have pleaded not guilty.

The girl’s step-brother, Joshua Drabek faces sexual assault charges.

Related stories:

• Couple accused of torture pleads not guilty in Madison court
• Joshua Drabek will stand trial for sexual assault of stepsister
• Testimony of alleged torture victim heard in Madison court