LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. (KPTV) - The father of a toddler who drowned in the Siletz River in Lincoln County in March has pleaded not guilty to child neglect.

Aaron Paulsen was arraigned Monday morning on a charge of second-degree child neglect. He was indicted by a grand jury on Oct. 16.

He’s accused of failing to watch 2-year-old Dane Paulsen and allowing him to fall into the river near the family’s home.

The search for Dane lasted 11 days before his body was pulled from the river .

Aaron Paulsen was not in custody Monday and is still free on his own recognizance, although he is not allowed to have contact with kids under the age of 5.

Dane’s mom and their family have been very outspoken about their criticism of the investigation , saying they believe it was more than just a tragic

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