An Indiana couple faces charges after police say a toddler’s tongue was cut down the middle with scissors or a similar object.
Holly Cota, 28, and boyfriend Scott Edwards, 33, were arrested Friday in connection to injuries her son suffered, which sent him to Union Hospital in Terre Haute, the Tribune Star reported.
While at the hospital, the staff determined a sharp device, most likely scissors, was used to slice the toddler’s tongue and cut off the tip, according to police.
Physicians called authorities to the hospital after determining the laceration was inflicted.
Charges were filed against Edwards for aggravated battery and neglect of a dependent.
Investigators said the injury occurred while the child was alone in Edwards’ care, according to the Tribune Star.
Cota, however, initially told police she was the only person present when the boy was hurt. She claimed his injuries stemmed from the child falling out of bed.
It wasn’t until a follow-up interview that the mom admitted her boyfriend was watching him, officials said.
Cota now faces charges for obstruction of justice.
Both Edwards and Cota appeared in court Tuesday for their initial hearing, the newspaper reported.