Nashville

Henry County Parents Arrested on Aggravated Child Abuse and Neglect Charges

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Published on September 17, 2024
Henry County Parents Arrested on Aggravated Child Abuse and Neglect ChargesSource: Henry County Sheriff’s Office

In Henry County, a disturbing case of child abuse has come to light involving two parents and their two-month-old infant, who sustained serious injuries deemed non-accidental. According to WSMV, Leah Michell Lee Zicot and Dalton Tyler Bennett are facing charges of aggravated child abuse and neglect after an investigation prompted by medical professionals' concerns. Medical staff alerted authorities last week about the infant's condition, prompting an immediate response from local law enforcement.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) received an alert on September 10 regarding a child who was suffering from suspicious medical issues. The baby displayed a range of injuries that caught the attention of healthcare providers and, upon investigation by the authorities alongside the Tennessee Department of Children's Services, it became evident that the child's injuries occurred under the parents’ supervision, as reported by WKRN. Both Zicot and Bennett were arrested on September 12 and remain in custody on an $800,000 bond.

The gravity of the case is reflected in the joint efforts by multiple agencies, with the HCSO Criminal Investigation Division, the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation collaborating in ongoing investigations. As mentioned by WBBJTV, the focus is on ensuring justice and the well-being of the victim, while the authorities urge the public to come forward with any relevant information by contacting the HCSO Criminal Investigation Division.