Accused Choate Abuser Admits Neglect

The stepmother of a slain 13-year-old Gary boy whose body was found in a shallow grave last year has pleaded guilty to neglect and agreed to testify against the boy's father when he's tried for murder and other charges.

The Times of Munster reports 46-year-old Kimberly Kubina also agreed to serve 25 to 35 years in prison. She's due to be sentenced Aug. 28.

Christian Choate's body was found last May, two years after his death. Thirty-nine-year-old Riley Choate, whom Kubina divorced in December, faces an August trial on charges of murder, neglect, criminal confinement and battery. He has pleaded not guilty.

Kubina said the boy was confined to a dog cage by his father. She admitting directing the boy's sister to feed him only Asian noodles for meals.