Monday, January 14, 2013
Child Abuse Investigation Initiated
A child abuse investigation was initiated during the weekend in connection with the alleged abuse of two young Iron City residents.
Deputies with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department were asked to initiate the investigation on Sunday. Reports show that the victim, age 17, had a bruise under her left eye which she said she sustained when her mother slapped her.
She told deputies that due to her mother’s limited mobility, when disciplined she is required to stand on her knees with her hands underneath her knees. While in this position, she said her mother then slaps her repeatedly about the head and face.
Authorities are investigating whether the victim and her eight year old brother are regularly subjected to verbal assaults and mental abuse. Both homeschooled, authorities are working to determine whether they are working on an appropriate level.
Although an agent with the Department of Children’s Services was consulted, it was determined that there was not enough evidence at that point to warrant an emergency removal. The children were, instead, allowed to stay with relatives pending outcome of the investigation.
