Police say the 15-month-old girl suffered diaper rashes and sores on her legs and feet from being kept in a playpen for extended periods of time.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A St. Pete couple that was arrested in connection to the death of a 1-month-old is now facing new charges involving a 15-month-old girl.
Gabriella Daniels, 22, and Ashton Kurant, 21, are both facing aggravated child abuse (unlawful caging) and neglect (environmental hazards) in addition to charges that were filed just last week.
St. Pete police say a 15-month-old child who was in their care suffered “significant” diaper rashes and sores on her legs and feet from being kept in a playpen for extended periods of time.
The child’s mattress was reportedly soaked in urine and living insects.
The 15-month-old is now receiving care in a safe environment, officials say.
Last week, a baby boy who was in Daniels and Kurant’s care was taken to the hospital for medical treatment, where he died. Investigators say the 1-month-old had bruises along his hairline, as well as scratches and lacerations throughout his body.
According to an arrest affidavit, Daniels and Kurant were the infant’s “sole caregivers” and did not enroll in any daycare services. They both reportedly gave investigators “inconsistent statements” on the baby’s feeding and changing routines.
Records also show the Department of Children and Families (DCF) was involved with the family and claimed that the boy was clear of injuries as of April 10 — nearly a week before his death.
They’re both facing aggravated child abuse and child neglect in the boy’s death.
An investigation is ongoing.