A 24-year-old mother, B. Lair, and her 25-year-old boyfriend, J. Sneed, have been arrested and charged after a shocking incident in Kentucky where Lair’s 3-year-old son suffered severe burns while under Sneed’s care.
The child’s injuries, which required hospitalization, were reportedly caused by being submerged in scalding hot water, and investigations suggest that the injuries were inflicted intentionally by Sneed.
A Disturbing Incident and Delayed Medical Attention
The police were alerted to the child’s condition after he was brought to a children’s hospital on April 6. Medical staff observed that the injuries were consistent with burns from hot liquid.
The child’s own account, given to investigators, supported the theory. He reportedly told authorities that Sneed, Lair’s boyfriend, “did this to my hands,” indicating that he had intentionally placed his hands in the hot water.
Violating CPS Directives and Misinformation
The situation took a disturbing turn as it was revealed that Lair had left her son alone with Sneed for about an hour, despite Child Protective Services (CPS) having already warned Lair against allowing Sneed to be in contact with her son.
This directive was in place due to an ongoing investigation into previous abuse allegations involving Sneed. After the child was injured, Lair allegedly delayed seeking medical attention for up to three hours.
Furthermore, when medical staff inquired about the nature of the injuries, Lair provided false information about how they occurred, adding another layer of deceit to the case.
Legal Charges and Arraignment
Both Lair and Sneed have been charged with serious offenses. Lair faces a first-degree child abuse charge, while Sneed is charged with both first-degree child abuse and an additional assault charge.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty during their arraignment. Sneed’s cash bond has been set at $15,000, and Lair’s at $10,000.
The police affidavit highlights the deliberate actions taken by the suspects that led to the child’s severe physical injuries.
“The totality of the suspects’ intentional actions led to the victim, whom [Lair] has parental custody over, being placed in a situation in which he received serious physical injuries,” the affidavit states.
Employment and Community Impact
Lair’s position as an instructional assistant at a local elementary school has added another layer of concern to the case. Given the charges, her employment status is under review, and local reports have raised questions about how she was able to work in a position involving the care and safety of children while facing such allegations.
The case has sparked outrage in the community, with many questioning how these tragic events could have been prevented.
The Road to Justice and Recovery
As the legal proceedings continue, both Lair and Sneed remain detained at the department of corrections, awaiting further court actions scheduled for April 15.
The incident raises important questions about child safety and the importance of adhering to CPS guidelines that are meant to protect vulnerable children from harm. In the meantime, the child, who is recovering from both physical and emotional trauma, is receiving support as he begins his journey toward healing.
