ISLE OF WIGHT, Va. (WAVY) – A mother of a 19-month-old and her live-in boyfriend were in court Monday following a month-long investigation into a child abuse and neglect case in which an infant was found with a fractured skull and more than 16 rib fractures, according to court documents.
Ifrika Aniya Richardson, 23, and Jias LaTwan Wilson-Booker, 24, were arrested May 29 after the infant was admitted to Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters in Norfolk with multiple injuries medical professionals said were consistent with prolonged physical abuse and neglect.
According to court documents, a CHKD official told investigators she was concerned the next time she would see the infant was when he was dead.
The couple faces charges of malicious wounding with severe injury, child abuse, child neglect, and domestic assault and battery. They are currently being held at Western Tidewater Regional Jail without bond.
Following the infant’s treatment, the 19-month-old was placed in the custody of the Isle of Wight County Department of Social Services.
“This is a heartbreaking case that no child should ever have to endure,” said Sheriff James R. Clarke Jr. “We are committed to pursuing justice on behalf of this young victim and are grateful to CHKD, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Social Services, and our investigative team for their swift and coordinated response.”