Three East Texas women have been arrested after investigators say a 2-month-old infant suffered life-threatening head injuries while being left locked in a bedroom with two young children as the adults went out to drink and use drugs.
The Smith County Sheriff’s Office said 21-year-old Sidney Whitt, 29-year-old Jacqulyn Michelle Morales, and 18-year-old Shelby Munoz have each been charged with injury to a child and endangering a child. Each is being held in the Smith County Jail on collective bonds totaling $500,000.
Investigation Began After Hospital Report
According to investigators, the case began on June 18 when Child Protective Services and hospital staff notified the sheriff’s office that a 2-month-old had been brought to a Tyler hospital with injuries consistent with child abuse.
Medical personnel reported the infant was suffering from brain bleeding, seizures, and facial bruising. The child was later airlifted to Children’s Medical Center in Dallas for specialized treatment.
Authorities said the infant remains on a ventilator in a medically induced coma.
Mothers Allegedly Left Children While They Went to Hotel
During the investigation, detectives interviewed the infant’s mother and other adults and children living in the home before obtaining a search warrant.
Investigators determined that on the night of June 16, Whitt and Morales left the residence after placing Morales’ sister, Munoz, in charge of the children.
Before leaving, the two women allegedly locked the 2-month-old infant inside a bedroom with two other children, ages 4 and 6.
According to the sheriff’s office, Whitt and Morales then traveled to a hotel to meet a man, where investigators say they consumed alcohol and used drugs.
While the women were away, the two older children allegedly began tossing the infant around before stomping on the baby’s head.
Authorities said Munoz did not intervene, later telling investigators that the children were not hers and that she did not believe their care was her responsibility.
Investigators also allege that when Whitt and Morales returned home and observed the infant’s injuries, they did not seek immediate medical treatment. The baby was not taken to a hospital until June 18.
Deputies Describe Unsafe Living Conditions
While executing a search warrant at the Tyler home, investigators found what they described as dangerous and unsanitary living conditions.
According to the sheriff’s office, the residence lacked air conditioning and was infested with flies. Deputies also found floors heavily littered with rat feces, dirty diapers, and clothing.
The investigation further revealed that several children were routinely locked inside a room whenever their mothers left the residence, authorities said.
Arrests Made
Morales and Munoz were arrested on June 23, while Whitt was taken into custody two days later.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone who suspects child abuse is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453, which is available 24 hours a day.
