by A Florida mother has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for failing to protect her newborn twins from horrifying abuse by their father, which led to the death of one infant and serious injuries to the other.
Hannah Renee Jones, 21, of Cocoa, pleaded no contest to charges of child neglect causing great bodily harm. Prosecutors say she allowed the abuse to continue without reporting it, ultimately resulting in the death of one child and the severe wounding of her sibling.
What Happened
Authorities responded to a 911 call on October 5, 2023, regarding an unresponsive infant at a residence in Cocoa, Florida. The infant was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
An investigation revealed that both twins had suffered extensive physical abuse in their short two-and-a-half months of life.
Key Details
- Victim 1 (deceased) showed signs of multiple bruises on the face, head, body, back, and ribs. Swelling was also observed on the arm.
- Victim 2 (survivor) had bruises on the face and a large bite mark on the buttocks.
- According to an arrest affidavit, Quentin Smith, the children’s father, admitted to biting, shaking, and yanking the infants repeatedly.
- Jones told investigators she had seen Smith abuse the babies but did not seek medical help or call authorities.
- Jones reportedly blamed the injuries on the babies “banging their heads” or rough feeding methods by Smith.
Reactions or Statements
During the sentencing, Circuit Judge Charles Crawford strongly condemned Jones’ failure to protect her children.
“You should never be in charge of any children ever again,” Crawford told Jones.
Assistant State Attorney Rebecca Price stated:
“These babies came home from the hospital and spent their entire two-and-a-half months there in an abusive environment. It’s only because one baby was found dead that morning that her sister lived.”
Investigation or What’s Next
Quentin Smith, 25, remains in custody and is scheduled to face trial on charges of aggravated child abuse by willful torture.
He confessed to investigators that he bit both babies multiple times and once yanked one of them by the shoulder out of frustration. He also claimed Jones had also handled the infants carelessly by hanging them upside down by the legs.
Smith is due back in court in June.
FAQs
Who was sentenced in this case?
Hannah Renee Jones, 21, the mother of the victims, received a 20-year prison sentence for child neglect causing great bodily harm.
What happened to the babies?
One twin died from injuries sustained through ongoing abuse. The surviving twin also suffered significant trauma.
Who is Quentin Smith?
Quentin Smith is the father of the twins and the alleged primary abuser. He is facing criminal charges and is awaiting trial.
Did the mother participate in the abuse?
While she did not commit physical abuse, Jones admitted to witnessing the violence and failing to intervene or report it.
What is the current status of the case?
Jones has been sentenced. Smith’s trial is pending, with a hearing scheduled for June.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The tragic death of an infant in Cocoa, Florida, has led to a 20-year prison sentence for a mother who failed to protect her newborns from extreme abuse. With the father still awaiting trial, the case serves as a somber reminder of the critical responsibility caregivers have in safeguarding vulnerable children from harm.
