Pumpkin patch owners face child abuse charges

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH/Gray News) - Two owners of a pumpkin patch in Kansas are facing child abuse charges.

According to court documents filed in Sedgwick County on May 1, Aaron and Kara Smith are accused of abusing a child on April 19.

The pair are owners of Cedar Creek Pumpkin Patch in Maize.

Aaron Smith is charged with “unlawfully and knowingly impeding the normal breathing or circulation of the blood by applying pressure on the throat, neck or chest of a child under 18.”

Kara Smith is charged with “unlawfully and knowingly torture, cruelly beat, cruelly strike or cruelly kick a child at least six years of age but less than 18.”

Both were released from jail on a $10,000 bond. The couple is due back in court on Sept. 29.

Cedar Creek Pumpkin Patch in Maize is still reported to be open for the season on Oct. 3.