MOBILE, Ala. — A 17-year-old babysitter has been arrested in connection with the suspected abuse of a 4-year-old child he was watching, according to the Mobile Police Department.
Officers were called to USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital on Thursday, Oct. 5, at around 9 p.m. after staff reported treating a severely injured 4-year-old. Detectives classified the case as aggravated child abuse.
Child recovering after hospital stay
According to police, the child had multiple injuries and extensive bruising and tested positive for drugs. The department said the child has since been released from the hospital and is recovering.
On Monday afternoon, investigators identified the teenage babysitter as a suspect and took him into custody. Because he is a juvenile, authorities have not released his name, and formal charges had not been detailed publicly.
The Alabama Department of Human Resources has been notified of the incident. Police said DHR is working alongside investigators to help ensure the child’s safety going forward.
The investigation remains ongoing.