A child was taken to the hospital after disclosing disturbing allegations involving both physical and sexual abuse. Deputies were called in to investigate and ensure the child’s immediate safety.
According to a report from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a hospital after concerns were raised about a 7-year-old girl. The child had recently been picked up by family members after messages suggested she may have been mistreated while living elsewhere.
Family members told deputies the child made statements indicating she had been struck in the mouth and inappropriately touched. She allegedly said she was warned not to tell anyone and threatened with further harm if she did.
A relative who bathed the child later asked her about her time away and was told the child did not like staying there. The child reportedly described being grabbed and touched inappropriately and said she had been hit in the mouth, causing bleeding. Family members said they documented an injury with photos.
Hospital staff evaluated the child and expressed uncertainty about whether it was safe to release her without further review. Children’s Services was contacted, and a caseworker advised that the child could temporarily return with family while the case is investigated further. The matter may be transferred to another jurisdiction due to residency issues.
Deputies collected statements, documentation, and any available messages or photographs and forwarded the report to Children’s Services and investigators for follow-up.
What Parents Should Know
Authorities stress that when a child makes statements like these:
- Believe them and report immediately
- Do not pressure them for details
- Seek medical care
- Allow trained investigators and forensic interviewers to handle questioning
The investigation remains ongoing.
