After an extensive months-long search, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has apprehended a couple accused of abandoning their injured 4-month-old baby at a hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Brandon Augustine, 24, and Mildred Chestnut, 23, allegedly left their child in March, claiming that the injuries were the result of a minor car crash.
However, the severity of the child’s injuries, which were deemed life-altering, raised suspicions among investigators.
The arrests were made by the department’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) on Thursday. The couple now faces charges of Felony Child Abuse Inflicting Serious Injury. Details regarding the circumstances of their apprehension have not been disclosed at this time.
“We as an agency, and I personally am very disappointed in the bond amounts,” Lt. Jim Ivie said. “I think that despite not only considering the extensive resources that law enforcement expended to find these two who are running, but also that you have a 4-month-old child who didn’t even have a chance at life who has been injured so that their life will never be the same, and they’re giving such a low amount so that they can get right out of jail.”
The search for Augustine and Chestnut commenced in March when concerned family members reported them missing.
The couple had been on the run since then, potentially crossing state lines to evade capture.
“They had been on the run in Georgia, through South Carolina and made it back to this area,” Ivie added.
On March 21, detectives discovered their abandoned vehicle in Austell, Georgia, deliberately concealed from sight. This discovery led investigators to believe that the couple had received assistance, including financial support, shelter, and transportation.
Records from the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office confirm that both Augustine and Chestnut are now in custody.
Upon examining the abandoned infant, medical professionals discovered severe and life-altering injuries that were inconsistent with the couple’s claim of a minor car crash. This discrepancy prompted the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department to initiate an investigation on March 21 following the report of the parents’ disappearance.
“At this point, we’re still trying to put together a timeline prior to the child being left at the hospital,” Ivie added. “It suffered severe, life-altering brain injuries. This child’s life will not be the same.”
The subsequent search for Augustine and Chestnut involved collaboration among multiple law enforcement agencies and extended over several months.
The focus of the investigation has been to determine the circumstances surrounding the child’s injuries and to ensure the safety and well-being of the infant.
The child is currently receiving appropriate medical care and support.
The arrests of Brandon Augustine and Mildred Chestnut mark a significant breakthrough in this case, bringing hope that justice will be served for the injured child.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, along with its partner agencies, remains committed to uncovering the truth and holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
