A Douglas County mother and her boyfriend are facing serious felony charges after investigators say they attacked a teenage child in the middle of a seizure, leaving visible injuries and kicking off a criminal case that is now in the hands of local prosecutors.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, deputies have charged Rebecca Anderson and Omar Salem with aggravated assault, first-degree cruelty to children, and reckless conduct. The outlet reports that both were taken into custody and booked into the Douglas County Jail following their arrests.
Police documents obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta allege the teen was "kicked, slapped, hit with a walking stick and cursed at" while experiencing what is described as a "lock up" seizure. A warrant further claims Anderson slapped the child after the teen asked for medicine, leaving a visible bruise. Officials have not said publicly how the case first came to the attention of investigators, and they have not disclosed where the child is currently placed.
What the charges mean
Under Georgia law, first-degree cruelty to children can apply when a caretaker maliciously causes a child cruel or excessive physical or mental pain, and it is charged as a felony. Aggravated assault and reckless conduct are separate crimes with their own legal definitions and penalties. For the full statutory language, see Justia for O.C.G.A. § 16-5-70 and Justia for O.C.G.A. § 16-5-21.
How to report suspected abuse
In Georgia, suspected child abuse can be reported to the Division of Family and Children Services through a centralized intake line and online portal. Reports are accepted 24 hours a day at 1-855-GACHILD (1-855-422-4453) or via the state’s CPS website. The Georgia Department of Human Services advises calling 911 if a child appears to be in immediate danger, and notes that DFCS will work with law enforcement and local caseworkers during investigations. More details on reporting and available supports are listed by Georgia DHS.
The Douglas County investigation remains active, and upcoming court filings will shape what happens next, including whether prosecutors seek indictments or move forward to arraignments. Residents who want to track the case can monitor Douglas County court dockets or public updates from the sheriff’s office as it progresses through the legal system.
