Parents in South Carolina Face Charges After Rats Allegedly Injure 6-Month-Old Twins

What investigators discovered within the Bearden residence further complicated the case.

The trailer was filled with signs of rodent infestation—droppings scattered across the floors, chewed wires, and shredded food packaging. However, what troubled the deputies the most was the absence of any crib monitors, signs of recent pest control measures, or any immediate explanation for how the infants had been left exposed.

One officer remarked on the eerie silence, stating that it seemed as if the place had been deserted just moments before they arrived. Neighbors later disclosed that they had heard unusual scratching noises at night emanating from the trailer—but no one ever anticipated something so terrifying was occurring within. 

A couple from South Carolina is currently dealing with severe charges following the alleged attack of their six-month-old twins by rats while they were left unattended in their bassinet. 

Akayla and Justin Beard, both 24 years old, were apprehended following a distressing 911 call made by Akayla, who reported that one of their young daughters was experiencing severe bleeding. When officers from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the residence in Belton, they were confronted with a terrifying sight. 

According to fox carolina, the baby girl was discovered covered in blood with bite wounds on her arms, head, ears, face, and back. The injuries were sustained by the infant while she was resting in her bassinet. The couple informed the authorities that a ‘large rat’ was the culprit behind the attack, as reported by wsmv.

Her identical twin brother was also found to have bite marks, with the majority of them occurring on his feet. Both infants were swiftly taken out of the house and entrusted to the care of the department of social services to ensure their well-being. 

Another child living in the same household was also placed under the care of dss, but no further information about that child has been disclosed. 

The baby girl was taken to greenville memorial hospital, where she stayed for several days receiving medical care for her injuries. The deputies described her injuries as extremely serious, mentioning that the bites had resulted in significant bleeding. 

During the interrogation, the beardens confessed to being aware of a current rodent infestation in their trailer. They claimed that ‘field rats’ had been a recurring problem in the house, but they had done nothing to tackle the issue or protect their children.

After being admitted, both akayla and justin bearden were accused of committing two counts of unlawful conduct towards a child. A court ruling currently prohibits them from having any contact with their children unless they receive specific permission from the department of social services. 

Both parents were given the opportunity to be released on bond and are set to appear in court on July 31 for a hearing. 

Simultaneously, the authorities have reported that the baby girl will need to remain in the hospital as her recovery continues. 

Result: 

This deeply unsettling case has not only shaken the local community but also raised immediate concerns about child neglect and hazardous living conditions. The tragic injuries endured by the six-month-old twins underscore the catastrophic outcomes that can arise from disregarding obvious hazards within a home setting.

As the legal proceedings progress and the children remain in protective custody, authorities hope that justice will prevail—and that this devastating incident serves as a powerful reminder of the paramount duty all parents have to safeguard the safety and welfare of their children.