Heartbreaking News! Ellipsis Iowa Staff Member Passes Away After Assault

Ellipsis Iowa staff member who was assaulted by a youngster at the facility has died, according to authorities.

Kathleen Galloway-Menke, 50, of Des Moines, was assaulted by a resident on May 8 at 7085 Northwest Beaver Drive in Johnston, a facility that provides services to disturbed kids. Galloway-Menke died in the hospital on Tuesday, according to police.

According to the police report, Ellipsis called to report that a 15-year-old resident had left campus and “had a history of being violent.” According to the report, the incident occurred outside the facility at 6:42 p.m., near the junction of Northwest Beaver Drive and Northwest 70th Avenue.

According to the report, four police officers suffered minor injuries.

The juvenile suspect remained on the scene and was taken to jail, where he is still kept.

Police stated that “amended criminal charges are pending.” Iowa law prevents naming adolescents implicated in crimes until they are charged as adults. Johnston police say they will disclose more information as the investigation progresses.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt sympathies to the victim’s family and friends who have been affected by this unfortunate occurrence. “We understand that an incident like this can be upsetting for our community,” Johnston police said in a news statement. “The Johnston Police Department remains engaged with the leadership and staff of Ellipsis, who are cooperating with the investigation.”

Ellipsis began in 2021 when the previous charities Youth Homes of Mid-America (YHMA) and Youth Emergency Services & Shelter (YESS) joined. According to the organization’s website, it provides residential care and treatment, counseling and therapy, behavioral health intervention services, care coordination, and family support to over 750 children and their families every day.

Ellipsis CEO Chris Koepplin said in a statement that the company is offering more counselors and specialists to all staff and adolescents in its residential programs while continuing to provide its present services to clients.

“Ellipsis is deeply saddened by this circumstance and sends deepest condolences to all those affected. “We deeply and personally mourn this loss,” Koepplin stated.

“Ellipsis remains committed to offering a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved, including our community,” stated Koepplin.