Two Texas Women and Teen Family Member Face Child Abuse Charges
Authorities in Texas have arrested two mothers and an 18-year-old family member after a two-month-old baby suffered life-threatening head injuries in a case that has shocked the local community.
Investigators allege the infant was left inside a bedroom with two young children while the adults went out for the night. The baby later suffered serious injuries and is currently receiving intensive medical treatment.
The three women are facing multiple criminal charges related to child endangerment and injury to a child. The investigation is ongoing.
Police Say Infant Was Left in Unsafe Conditions
According to investigators, the incident happened in Tyler, Texas, on June 16. Police claim that 29-year-old Jacqulyn Morales and 21-year-old Sidney Whitt left the home while Morales’ 18-year-old sister, Shelby Munoz, stayed behind.
Authorities allege the infant was locked inside a bedroom along with two children, ages four and six. During the night, the older children allegedly assaulted the baby, causing severe head injuries. Investigators claim Munoz did not step in to stop what happened.
Officials also said the two mothers did not immediately seek medical treatment after returning home. The baby was taken to a hospital two days later, where doctors found injuries consistent with serious physical abuse.
Medical staff reported that the infant suffered brain bleeding, seizures, and extensive facial injuries before being transferred to Children’s Medical Center in Dallas for specialized treatment. The child remains in critical condition.
Investigation Revealed Poor Living Conditions
During the investigation, officers searched the home and reported finding unsafe living conditions. Authorities said the residence was heavily infested with flies and contained rat droppings, dirty diapers, and other unsanitary conditions.
Investigators also believe children living in the home were regularly locked inside a room whenever adults left the residence.
Following the investigation, Morales, Whitt, and Munoz were arrested and booked into the Smith County Jail. Each faces charges of child endangerment and injury to a child, with combined bond amounts totaling $500,000.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the case as the infant remains hospitalized.
