In Seekonk, Massachusetts, a mother and her sister have been arrested after a 4-year-old girl sustained life-threatening burns. The accused, identified as 38-year-old Guilene Gerome (mother) and 44-year-old Franzceska Gerome (aunt), face charges including reckless endangerment of a child and permitting substantial injury to a child according to NBC Boston. Franzceska Gerome is also charged with assault and battery on a child with substantial injury.
The Bristol County District Attorney's Office states that on October 8, the child suffered severe second and third-degree burns covering a significant part of her body. The authorities were not notified until approximately 17 hours later as reported by CBS News Boston.
WCVB reports that, on arrival at Hasbro Children's Hospital, the child's condition was critical. Her body was in shock due to the burns, her organs were functioning improperly, and there was an increased risk of cardiac arrest. Consequently, more than a month after the incident, the child remains hospitalized despite stabilization.
The investigation, involving the Seekonk Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police, and the Department of Children and Families, focuses on the protection and well-being of the young victim, ensuring she gets the needed care to recover.
The accused are promised a fair justice process, including their arraignment on November 13 as reported by NBC Boston, while concern remains centered on the child's recovery.
