Police investigate picture of toe being stuck in baby’s mouth

Gaffney police are investigating a child welfare complaint after a photo was shared on social media of a teenager sticking her toe in a baby’s mouth.

The incident took place Wednesday when someone who noticed the shared picture on Facebook notified police. The picture was determined to have been taken at 906 W. Buford St. where a mother was caring for children in her home.

The person whose toe is seen in the picture is a mother who came to see her daughter at the residence.

Lt. Ron Ramsey, of the Gaffney Police Department, said the department is consulting with the Department of Social Services and the Department of Juvenile Justice to determine if there was any wrongdoing.

“I’ve consulted with the solicitor’s office and a city court judge and I don’t know if there is a criminal charge at this time,” Ramsey said.

Since the mother involved in the incident is 15 years old, a juvenile, the case will be turned over to DJJ who will approach Family Court to determine any possible charges, Ramsey said.

“A cruelty to children charge requires ill treatment and I don’t know if this rises to that level,” Ramsey said. “We’re sort of in a quandary here.”

DSS is also investigating how many children are being cared for at the home and if the homeowner is required to have a license for child care.

An investigation is ongoing.

This story was originally published September 4, 2015 at 3:37 PM.