Maplewood Man Charged With Malicious Punishment of a Child in Ramsey County
Published: May 8th 2026
RAMSEY COUNTY MN: A Maplewood man has been charged in Ramsey County District Court with malicious punishment of a child following allegations that he used unreasonable force or cruel discipline that resulted in bodily harm to a child.
According to a Ramsey County criminal complaint, Adam John Ellsworth is charged with one gross misdemeanor count of malicious punishment of a child resulting in less than substantial bodily harm.
The complaint alleges that on or about May 1, 2026, in Ramsey County, Ellsworth, while acting as a parent, legal guardian, or caretaker of a child, committed an intentional act or series of intentional acts that evidenced unreasonable force or cruel discipline excessive under the circumstances.
According to the complaint, the alleged punishment resulted in less than substantial bodily harm to the child.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.
The allegations and charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.