When one is accused of abusing his or her own child, authorities and child protection agencies won’t take it lightly. Allegations of abuse and/or neglect of a child in Georgia may lead to the loss of child custody for the accused parent. The removal of a child from one’s home may be temporary while investigations are underway, but this can become permanent if the investigation is followed by charges and convictions. One local man recently found himself in such a situation.
The man was arrested on charges of aggravated battery and cruelty to a child — the child being his own son. Reports allege that the man had branded his son’s body with a heat gun, leaving him disfigured. It is believed that the incident occurred sometime between June and Nov. 2017. The child is presently in the custody of the local Division of Family and Children’s Services.
The child’s parents both maintain their innocence in regard to any abuse accusations. As of this report, there was no indication of long-term or permanent custody arrangements for the boy. There was also no mention of how the allegations came to be. The investigation is ongoing.
It can be devastating to lose custody of one’s own child, especially if it is due to false allegations or a misunderstanding. There are two sides to every story, but it may be difficult to defend oneself or know where to turn for advice regarding child custody in Georgia. Fortunately, one can always consult a local family law professional when dealing with these matters.
Source: 13wmaz.com, “Man accused of branding child with heat gun, causing ‘serious’ disfiguration“, Savannah Brock and Joe Henke, Jan. 10, 2018