A heartbreaking incident in Clovis, New Mexico, has led to the arrest of 35-year-old Jared White after his 5-month-old son was found dead over the weekend. White is now facing serious charges, including child abuse resulting in death and abandonment of a child resulting in death.
This tragic event has raised important concerns about child abuse, neglect, and the conditions under which children are living.
Death of the Infant
The Clovis Police Department responded to a call on Sunday afternoon just after 2 p.m. regarding a 5-month-old baby who was found not breathing. The baby was immediately rushed to Plains Regional Medical Center but was tragically pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
While paramedics made initial attempts to save the child, suspicions grew among investigators after hearing White’s explanation of the events leading up to the infant’s death. White told investigators that he had found his son in a tipped-over bouncer after spending about an hour at a friend’s house.
However, police noted that the state of the child’s body and the timeline of White’s story didn’t add up.
By the time paramedics arrived, the infant was already in full rigor mortis, which indicated that the child had likely been dead for several hours before White discovered him. This raised serious doubts about White’s account of the situation.
Investigating the Cause of Death
The investigation took a disturbing turn when authorities found signs of possible strangulation on the baby’s body. White’s statements to the police were inconsistent with the evidence at the scene, prompting further inquiry. A key witness, a friend of White’s, initially supported his story but later changed her statement.
The friend admitted to seeing White strangling the baby hours before the emergency call. Around 1 a.m., she reportedly saw White wrapping the baby in a blanket and lifting him by the neck, allegedly strangling him. The witness also expressed fear of White, which led to her not intervening at the time.
Evidence of Neglect and Poor Living Conditions
In addition to the tragic death of the infant, police discovered disturbing conditions at White’s home. Drug paraphernalia was found scattered around the residence, and the house was filled with dog feces and filth.
One bedroom contained a dirty mattress, and a baby bottle with a cockroach inside was found. These unsanitary conditions contributed to the charges against White.
A second child was found in the home, showing clear signs of neglect, including diaper rash. This child was taken into protective custody for their safety. Law enforcement described the living conditions as a serious health hazard, further raising concerns about the environment in which White’s children were living.
White’s emotional instability was also noted by authorities, as he would sometimes appear calm and other times break down into tears or outbursts. These behaviors only added to the disturbing nature of the case.
Arrest and Charges
Jared White was arrested and is currently being held without bond at the Curry County Detention Center. He faces charges of child abuse resulting in death and abandonment of a child resulting in death. As the investigation continues, more charges may be added, depending on the evidence that comes to light.
This devastating case serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of child abuse and neglect. Jared White’s actions have led to the untimely death of his infant son, and the second child is now safe in protective custody. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the abuse, and White will face legal consequences for his actions.
A Call for Greater Awareness of Child Welfare
The tragic death of this young child underscores the need for greater awareness and action when it comes to child welfare.
Cases like this highlight the devastating impact of neglect and abuse, and they emphasize the importance of providing support for vulnerable families to ensure that children can grow up in safe, loving environments.
