South Carolina Couple Arrested After Their 6-Month-Old Babies Allegedly Attacked by Large Rats

Despite the unsettling information, some neighbors were taken aback, stating that they were unaware of the gravity of the couple’s living circumstances.

Now, there are concerns about how a hazardous infestation was overlooked for an extended period in a community that regularly checks on families with young children.

Authorities are also investigating whether other factors contributed to the children’s injuries and neglect, leaving many to wonder if there’s more to this tragic story than initially reported. 

A couple from South Carolina has been accused of child neglect after their six-month-old twins were allegedly attacked by rats while left alone in their bassinet at home. 

Kayla and Justin Beard, both 24 years old, were apprehended following a 911 call from Kayla, who reported that one of their infants was experiencing severe bleeding. 

When deputies from the anderson county sheriff’s office arrived at the couple’s belton, south carolina residence, they discovered a distressing scene: the baby girl was covered in blood with multiple bite wounds on her arms, head, ears, face, and back, according to fox carolina. The couple asserted that the injuries were a result of a ‘large rat,’ as reported by wspa.

The baby girl’s identical twin brother was also discovered to have multiple bite marks on his feet. Both newborns were swiftly taken out of the house and entrusted to the care of the department of social services (dss). 

Another child, who is a member of the couple, was also placed under the care of the dss, but the specific details about this child have not been made public. 

The baby girl who was hurt was taken to greenville memorial hospital, where she stayed for a few days to get better. The injuries sustained by the girl were severe, resulting in significant bleeding, particularly in her case.

During the investigation, the beardens confessed to being aware of a rat infestation in their residence for several months. They reportedly mentioned that ‘field rats’ had been a recurring issue in their trailer but admitted to not taking any measures to safeguard their children from the rodents. 

After their statements, both akayla and justin bearden were accused of committing two counts each of unlawful conduct towards a child. They have been restricted from communicating with their children unless given permission by dss. 

Both parents were released on Tuesday and are set to appear in court on July 31 for a hearing. 

According to fox carolina, the baby girl is anticipated to stay in the hospital for a few more days while the investigation progresses. 

This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of neglect and emphasizes the critical importance of safeguarding children and ensuring suitable living environments. As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials stress the significance of safeguarding vulnerable children from detrimental surroundings.

Simultaneously, the community and authorities eagerly await updates on the twins’ recovery, with the hope that justice will guarantee their future well-being.