The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A mother was released on bond while her boyfriend remains in jail after they were accused of abusing and injuring the woman’s daughter, but the couple said the youngster’s bones had been shattered due to a genetic medical condition.
According to reports, on January 8, a child’s mother brought her to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola. After she was examined, she was diagnosed with a broken arm, broken ribs, and broken legs, in addition to two missing teeth, and marks that looked like bruises and teeth marks on several parts of her body. The medical staff reported that some of those injuries seemed to be from an earlier time since they were partially healed. The hospital believed the injuries were caused by child abuse, and they notified the authorities. Law enforcement from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office opened an investigation.
When the 28-year-old mom spoke with the police about the situation, she reportedly told them the toddler, whose age has not been disclosed, has Brittle Bone Disease. The authorities questioned her about her 29-year-old boyfriend’s proximity to the child. The woman allegedly told them he is rarely alone with the youngster, but they reportedly discovered texts on her phone between the couple where she admonished him for treating her daughter badly.
Both suspects were taken into custody and booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail. The child’s mother is charged with felony child neglect causing great bodily harm, and the man has been charged with felony aggravated cruelty towards a child (child abuse). According to facility records, the woman was released the following day after posting a $75,000 bond, and her boyfriend is currently being held in lieu of a $300,000 bond.
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.