TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — A woman has been charged with murder after Tallahassee Police say a 3-year-old child in her care died after she hit the child with an unknown object.
On Monday, Oct. 19, just after 7 p.m., the Tallahassee Police Department said they were contacted by a local hospital regarding the suspicious death of a small child.
"The initial information provided to doctors indicated the toddler fell at home. However, the victim’s injuries and evidence at the scene, did not appear to be consistent with that version of events," TPD wrote in a press release.
After an investigation, police charged the victim’s caretaker, 23-year-old Te’Lea Jefferson, in this case. Police say she hit the child with an object, resulting in child's death.
Based on the information released by TPD, it is unclear if Jefferson was the child's mother.
Jefferson has been charged with murder and aggravated child abuse. She is being held in jail without bond.
This is an active investigation and police say updates will be provided as they become available.
Tallahassee Police Investigators are asking anyone with information about the incident, who did not speak with an officer on scene, to please call 850-891-4200. They may also remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS.
If you see or suspect child abuse, say something. You can report it by calling TPD at 850-891-4200, Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS or the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873.
