29-year-old Shelby Gardner of Robin Hood Road in Elgin
/ Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center
ELGIN (WACH) -- Officials in Richland County say they've arrested a mother for allegedly burning her daughter with hot water.
Twenty-nine-year-old Shelby Gardner of Robin Hood Road in Elgin has been charged with aggravated assault on a child after they say she submerged the 7-year-old in hot water causing severe injuries.
Investigators were called to the hospital when they got a report that the child came in with injuries that indicated abuse Sunday.
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott says Gardner punished the daughter for lying about whether or not she had taken a bath the previous night. Gardner also put soap in the daughter's mouth during the hot bath, according to deputies.
"There’s no valid excuse or justification for this, our children should always be protected and those who violate the rights of our children must be held accountable," Lott adds.
The 7-year-old was transported to Augusta for her severe burns. The child has been placed in the custody of the Department of Social Services and medical professionals.
There's no word on her condition at this time. Gardner is being held at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
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