Two South Carolina adults have been arrested in connection with severe burn injuries sustained by a 1-year-old child, according to a statement released Monday by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department.
The individuals, identified as 32-year-old Darius Deyrer Jackson and 31-year-old Younga Pewu-Jackson, have each been charged with one count of unlawful conduct toward a child, a felony under South Carolina law.
According to the sheriff’s department, the case began on November 17, when the infant was taken to a burn center located out of state. Medical professionals there treated the child for significant burns found on multiple areas of the body. On November 19, authorities in South Carolina were notified, prompting an immediate investigation.
An incident report indicates that the child may have been burned after being submerged in water, though investigators have not publicly confirmed the exact circumstances leading to the injuries. Medical specialists at the burn center provided further information to investigators, helping establish that the injuries were consistent with unlawful conduct, rather than an accident.
Following the investigation, Jackson and Pewu-Jackson were arrested without incident on November 26. Both suspects were booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center and later released after posting bond. The sheriff’s department did not disclose the bond amounts.
While authorities have not confirmed the relationship between the suspects and the child, the charge itself applies to anyone who has custody of a child, is responsible for the child’s welfare, or is the parent or legal guardian, under South Carolina law.
If convicted, Jackson and Pewu-Jackson each face up to 10 years in prison, along with potential fines, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather details surrounding the circumstances that led to the child’s injuries.
