A mother from Ladson has been charged by the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office in relation to the tragic death of her child in May.
A spokesperson for the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, Lexi Douglas, has announced that Sara Shakeri-Taylor, a 39-year-old resident of Ladson, has been arrested and charged with homicide by child abuse.
The infant has been identified as 10-month-old Aminah Gathers by the Charleston County Coroner.
According to deputies, this incident originated from a call for assistance on May 15. They were dispatched to a residence on Hardwood Street after receiving reports of an infant who was unresponsive.
Shakeri-Taylor was at home with the infant’s father, 41-year-old Sandy Sharron Gathers, who had been previously arrested during this incident. Douglas mentioned previously that there was another individual who was also being charged, but the sheriff’s office has decided not to disclose any further details regarding this person.
Deputies swiftly initiated lifesaving measures at the scene, ensuring prompt assistance from firefighters and EMS. Tragically, the infant was transported to Summerville Medical Center, where she was later declared deceased.
An autopsy did not uncover any apparent injuries or determine the cause of the baby’s death. However, a toxicology examination revealed a significant presence of fentanyl in the baby’s system. The cause of her death was determined to be a fentanyl overdose.
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Authorities gathered various items as evidence at the scene, including baby bottles, formula, a pacifier, and a dollar bill with a powdery substance. The evidence was collected and sent to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. All items tested positive for fentanyl, according to the affidavits.
Shakeri-Taylor is facing charges that include conspiracy, animal fighting or baiting, and ill-treatment of animals, which are similar to the charges against Gathers.
Additional information in the affidavits provides a detailed account of the incident. Detectives reported that upon arriving at the scene, Gathers informed them that he had returned from work to find Shakeri-Taylor sleeping and the infant unresponsive, lying on her stomach at the foot of the bed.
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During the investigation into this incident, detectives discovered evidence of dog fighting. This included the presence of tethered and caged pit bulls, as well as pictures and video footage that provided further proof of the crimes committed.
The couple was reportedly operating their dogfighting operation by posing as an unlicensed “kennel.”