GLEN ST. MARY, FL – Charlene Ellis, 48, has been arrested on charges of child abuse without great bodily harm. The arrest followed an investigation by the Baker County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) into allegations of physical abuse against an 8-year-old child.
The case came to light on January 16 when healthcare professionals in Lake City reported the child’s injuries. BCSO detectives immediately launched an investigation, during which the child was kept away from the home.
This morning, after executing a search warrant at the residence where the abuse allegedly occurred, detectives interviewed all adults living there. The evidence collected, coupled with statements obtained during these interviews, led to the arrest of Ellis, the child’s live-in babysitter.
Sheriff Scotty Rhoden expressed his gratitude to the Department of Children & Families (DCF) for their collaboration in the investigation. He reaffirmed his commitment to child safety and urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of child abuse.