Honk News (Bienville Parish, LA) – Authorities report that three individuals in Louisiana have been charged after allegedly bringing a deceased 3-year-old child to the hospital.
On Wednesday, March 5, the Bienville Parish Sheriff’s Office announced via social media that Kewanna Monique Lard, 44, Dewanequa Monique Nykeria Lard, 23, and Szysznyk DeWayne Phillips, 48, have been charged with cruelty to juveniles.
Kewanna and Dewanequa faced charges of second-degree cruelty to juveniles and obstruction of justice.
Investigators from the sheriff’s office went to Bienville Medical Center on February 13 after receiving reports about Bienville Parish residents who brought a deceased child to the emergency room. Authorities performed an autopsy on the 3-year-old while looking into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
“After the autopsy, investigators started to examine potential physical abuse involving the deceased child and a 14-year-old who lived in the same home,” police stated.
Authorities reported that Kewanna, Dewanequa, and Phillips resided together with a 14-year-old and a 3-year-old child, whose identities have not been disclosed, in a residence located in Lucky, La.
Investigators from the sheriff’s office reported that they gathered enough evidence to arrest and charge the three individuals. According to police, they were taken to the Bienville Parish Jail, where bond was set at $100,000 for each count.
Authorities have stated that their investigation continues and that more charges may be forthcoming in this case.