Florida Parents Face Child Abuse Charges After Infant’s Death
Two parents in Florida are now facing child abuse charges following the tragic death of one of their 3-month-old twins. The other child was discovered with “severe injuries,” according to authorities.
Charges Filed
Quentin Smith, aged 23, is charged with aggravated child abuse, child neglect resulting in great bodily injury, and domestic battery, as confirmed by the Cocoa Police Department. Hannah Jones, aged 18, is also facing charges of aggravated child abuse, child neglect resulting in great bodily injury, and failure to report an incident to law enforcement.
Disturbing Incident
Police were summoned to a residence on N. Fiske Boulevard after receiving distress calls via 911 concerning an unresponsive child. Despite efforts to revive the child, they were sadly unsuccessful.
Investigation Underway
In response to the heartbreaking situation, detectives promptly initiated an inquiry to uncover the circumstances surrounding the child’s demise and the severe injuries sustained by their twin sibling.
Arrests Made
After conducting interviews with multiple witnesses and collecting physical evidence from the residence, investigators found sufficient probable cause to apprehend the couple.
Startling Confessions
During police interviews, Quentin Smith confessed to biting both children on multiple occasions. He also admitted to prior instances of “yanking” on one of the children’s arms and shaking one of them to silence them, as reported by Fox Orlando.
Failure to Report
Hannah Jones acknowledged that she was aware of Smith’s actions but failed to report them to law enforcement, according to a police report cited by the news outlet.
Further Charges Possible
Law enforcement authorities have indicated that the couple may face additional charges in connection with this distressing case.