BENTON, MISSOURI - Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter reports a woman in custody on charges stemming from a child abuse investigation.
Crystal Dawn Kennedy (35) of 2800 Woodland Drive, Scott City has been charged with the Class C Felony of Abuse or Neglect of a Child and the Class C Felony of Second Degree Domestic Assault.
Sheriff Walter states that on Tuesday, January 6th, at approximately 3:20 p.m., Deputy Danny Finley went to the residence to follow up on a report of abuse from the Missouri Department of Social Services.
Deputy Finley conducted an investigation along with a DFS Investigator. The deputy observed visible signs of injury on the head of a child living at the residence.
As a result of the investigation Kennedy was arrested and advised of her rights. She refused to speak with Deputy Finley concerning the matter. She was transported to the Scott County Jail pending the filing of formal charges by the Scott County Prosecuting Attorney.
Sheriff Walter states that incidents of this type are heartbreaking and sometimes difficult to investigate due to the age of the child. The Sheriff said that protecting the child is the first concern, because they are not able to protect themselves.
The Sheriff asks that anyone who has further information regarding this incident, other information on Kennedy, or any other crimes to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at 545-3525, or leave a message on the crime tip line at 1-866-210-4322.
Kennedy remains in custody at the Scott County Jail. Bond was set by the court at $1,000.00 cash or surety.
The Children’s Division Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline Unit accepts confidential reports of suspected child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Reports are received through a toll-free telephone line which is answered seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Any person may report, and anonymous reports are accepted from individuals who are not mandated by occupation to report. The toll-free number is 1-800-392-3738. Persons calling from outside Missouri should dial 573-751-3448. TDD: 1-800-669-8689.
