Authorities say a South Carolina mother has been charged with homicide by child abuse after feeding her 17-month-old daughter a teaspoon of salt.
Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office spokesman Lt. Kevin Bobo said that doctors told them the salt caused the toddler to have seizures and a high fever and become unresponsive. She died Wednesday after being taken off life support.
The mother, Kimberly Martines, 23, admitted to the act. Solicitor Barry Barnette said Martines told him that she was trying to "get her husband back into her life," according to WECT. The two are separated.
Arrest warrants noted she went to the doctor in November and ignored the pediatrician's referral to another doctor because the baby was not gaining weight and to an agency that helps babies who are slow to develop.
Deputies say a twin sister and second sibling are in protective custody.
About the Author
