Authorities say the situation was discovered in mid-October 2025, after school officials noticed large sores on the boy’s body. The child was eventually taken to a local clinic, where medical staff immediately became concerned about the severity of his condition. The sores were reportedly large, painful, and made it difficult for him to sit.
While at the clinic, the staff requested a urine sample from the child. According to investigators, his father, who brought him in, allegedly disposed of the sample before it could be tested. Police say he later admitted he was afraid of what the test might reveal and worried about possible consequences for the family. He reportedly suggested there were concerns involving drugs, alcohol, or other substances.
The boy was transferred to a children’s hospital, where the doctors diagnosed him with an MRSA infection. Medical staff reported that the sores were in various stages of healing, indicating the infection had been present for roughly a year. They also concluded that the child had been experiencing ongoing pain.
Investigators later spoke with the child’s mother, who allegedly acknowledged she had known about the sores for about a year. She reportedly admitted she did not take her son to a doctor despite noticing the condition. According to police, she claimed she attempted to treat the sores herself but did not provide details about what was used.
Both parents were taken into custody and booked into the St. Clair County Jail. The man is facing preliminary charges of endangering the welfare of a child and tampering with evidence. The child’s mother was accused of endangering the welfare of a child and abuse or neglect of a child.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a domestic violence offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.