Mother charged with murder in teen's starvation

MINOT, N.D. (AP) — Authorities say a North Dakota woman whose 13-year-old son weighed 21 pounds when he died in January has been charged with murder.

State Medical Examiner William Massello says Jessica Jensen's son died from chronic starvation due to untreated juvenile appetite disorder. He listed the manner of death as homicide.

Court documents say Jensen, of Kenmare, told investigators that her son had a hormonal growth problem and that his pituitary gland did not function properly. She also said her son had not seen a doctor for several years.

Jensen is also charged with neglect for failing to properly care for her other two children.

Court documents don't list an attorney for Jensen. She could face life in prison without parole if convicted.

Kenmare's in northern North Dakota near the Canadian border.