FITZGERALD, Ga. — Ben Hill County Sheriff’s Office investigators have charged a woman after a child in her care suffered second and third-degree burns in June.

Investigators were notified on June 15 by the Fitzgerald Police Department that a juvenile was being treated at Dorminy Medical Center for significant burns to his body. FPD detectives determined the incident happened at an address in Ben Hill County and contacted the Sheriff’s Office.

Investigators interviewed all parties involved and requested assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Investigation details

During a follow-up interview, investigators determined Christian Deaver was watching the child. While in her care, Deaver placed the child into a bathtub with only the hot water running, then left the child unattended and went to the opposite side of the residence, according to investigators.

While unattended, the child fell and was exposed to the water, sustaining second and third-degree burns to a portion of his body, investigators said. Deaver did not contact emergency services, and the child did not receive medical care for approximately 48 hours, according to investigators.

Medical staff at Dorminy Medical Center determined the child had sustained second and third-degree burns from exposure to hot water. The child was flown to a burn center for specialized treatment.

Investigators charged Christian Deaver with felony cruelty to children in the second degree, felony false statements and writings, and felony aggravated battery.

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