Woman arrested on child abuse charges after deputies find unresponsive infant
Citrus County, Florida - On Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) was contacted with the report of a disturbance. Deputies arrived at the location to find an infant with multiple bruises and swelling to the face and head. Deputies observed that the infant was breathing, but was not alert and unresponsive.
Emergency Medical Services immediately responded to the location, and the infant was airlifted to a hospital for emergency treatment.
CCSO Special Victim's Unit detectives Barry and Arnold began an investigation. The 36 year-old suspect, Jessica Figueroa, of Merritt Island in Brevard County, Florida, initially told detectives that the victim was injured in a fall.
Detectives obtained information from medical staff members that the trauma sustained by the victim was due to abuse and not the result of a fall. Ms. Figueroa eventually admitted to detectives that she'd noticed the infant was having medical issues, yet she did not seek medical attention. She also admitted that she'd struck the victim numerous times to the head and face and told detectives that she'd experienced memory lapses during the past weekend.
Figueroa was placed under arrest at 3:34 pm, charged with aggravated child abuse and child neglect, with her bond set at none.
"It is never easy for law enforcement officers, even seasoned detectives, to work cases of this nature," said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast. "Children are precious, and it is the responsibility of every adult to nurture and protect them. Figueroa abandoned this responsibility, physically harming the child and denying them proper medical treatment. Our dedicated detectives within the Special Victim's Unit will never stop seeking justice for the members of our community who cannot defend themselves."
It is important for us all to remember, if you see something, say something. Child abuse can be reported by calling the Florida Department of Children and Families at 1-800-962-2873.