Two are behind bars and an infant’s skull fractures are healing following an investigation of child abuse by the Senatobia Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division.
Destiny Williamson, 23, of Bartlett, TN, and Robert Reed, 22, of Senatobia were arrested Friday, May 6, and charged with felony child neglect. Reed also faces one count felony child abuse.
On Sunday, April 17, SPD began a child injury investigation and responded to call from LeBonheur Children’s Hospital Emergency Department in Memphis. Investigators found an infant had sustained multiple skull fractures while inside the city limits of Senatobia. The injuries were consistent with the possibility of physical child abuse.
After numerous interviews and gathering of evidence, investigators gained enough probable cause to charge Williamson and Reed with felony child neglect. Bartlett Police Department arrested the pair on May 6, and they were later extradited to the Senatobia Police Department.
Following the arrests, more evidence was gained, and felony child abuse was added to Reed’s charges.
Detective Brannon Rushing said crimes against children take precedence for the division.
"Violence that is perpetrated against defenseless children is considered by most, including myself, as the most heinous and traumatic crimes that are encountered by law enforcement officers,” said Rushing. “I am passionate about defending those who cannot defend themselves, and the Criminal Investigations Division of the Senatobia Police Department will always give these crimes the highest priority as long as I have the ability to influence that."
Williamson was booked and transported to the Tate County Jail for housing with a bond of $100,000. Reed was booked and held under a $250,000 bond.
According to reports, the child is doing well and expected to make a full recovery from the traumatic injuries.
The investigation is ongoing by SPD detectives. The department urges anyone with additional information or concerns to contact Detective Brannon Rushing at 662-366-1966.
