Mother charged in son's death can write to older child

By Marci Laehr Tenuta
Journal Times

Thursday, November 6, 2008 12:51 PM CST

RACINE — The mother of a 2-year-old boy who died when he was allegedly tied up in bed is now allowed to write to her 7-year-old son.

The bond for Tisa Hawes was modified Wednesday. Assistant District Attorney Patricia Hansen said the bond modification was requested because the older boy’s therapist recommended it. The 7-year-old is in protective custody and has not had any contact with Hawes since his younger brother was found dead.

Court Commissioner Alice Rudebusch ordered the bond modification allowing the written communication, but said no discussion of the court case would be allowed.

Hawes, 27, is charged with one count of failing to prevent harm to a child, for her 2-year-old son, Brian Hawes’ death.

Her boyfriend, Jessie Rodriguez, 27, is charged with second-degree reckless homicide and two counts of child abuse for his alleged treatment of both boys.

Hawes waived her right to a preliminary hearing last week. She was in court Wednesday for an arraignment, at which time she pled not guilty.

The case will now move toward trial or a possible plea agreement.

Hawes was still in custody Wednesday morning, being held on a $2,500 cash bond. She had previously been ordered to have no contact with anyone under the age of 18, including her 7-year-old son.

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