In a disturbing case emerging out of Needles, California, two residents have been taken into custody following the discovery of four minors with injuries suggesting severe abuse. In a climate where the sanctity of childhood should be upheld, tragedies like these betray our collective trust.
According to the SBSD - Colorado River Sheriffs Department, deputies responded to reports of possible physical abuse to a 14-year-old boy at around 4:15 p.m. on Tuesday, July 2, which further investigation revealed included three additional juvenile victims encountering abuse that was consistent, these victims were extracted from the premise with expedience and care, and two suspects now face serious charges. Suspects Michael and Shannon Jackson, both 42, were arrested and charged with Child Abuse with Great Bodily Injury under Penal Code 273A(A).
The male juvenile, along with another boy, 13, and two girls, ages 15 and 11, were found to have severe welts and bruising, as detailed by the Colorado River Sheriffs Department. This discovery undoubtedly cast an immeasurable pall over what is customarily a quaint and quiet block in the 1900s range of Lambert Street. The children, whose identities remain confidential, were placed in the custody of Tribal Social Services and transported to a local hospital for medical attention.
The sheriff's department is appealing to the public for further information, Deputy M. McKay is the point of contact and can be reached at the Colorado River Station/Needles Police Department phone number (760) 326-9200, and for those who wish to remain anonymous may provide tips through the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
