Glenwood couple charged with Domestic Battery
A Glenwood couple have been charged with domestic battery and permitting abuse of a minor in the Pike County Circuit Court.
On Thursday, February 1st, 28-year-old Michael Shepherd and 28-year-old Cheyanne Hildbrand were interviewed by Pike County Investigator Jason McDonald concerning injuries to the couple’s 3-month-old twins. They were both arrested following an interview that was conducted by McDonald.
According to the affidavit, the Pike County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division concerning a case involving a set of 3-month-old twins from Glenwood. The twins were admitted to the Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock. The twins were treated for fractures to their ribs and other bones in their bodies.
According to the Department of Human Services, a report was made against Shepherd and Hildbrand on January 5th for neglect.
On January 18th, the twins were transported to Children’s Hospital after visiting their pediatrician’s office in Hot Springs. A doctor from Children’s Hospital reported the injuries were approximately 2 to 7 weeks old due to the healing process. It was also the doctor’s opinion that the injuries were non-accidental and child abuse was suspected.
On February 1st, Sheppard and Hildbrand were interviewed separately.
Sheppard admitted that Hildbrand was the one responsible for the injuries and that he was attempting to cover for her. He stated that he had witnessed Hildbrand throw the baby on the bed and later kick the baby. Sheppard also told authorities that he and Hildbrand made up a story together to eliminate any possible guilt on their behalf.
During Hildbrand’s interview, she admitted she had anger issues when she doesn’t take her medication and that she may have grabbed the babies to hard on occasion. Hildbrand admitted to picking up the babies by their arms and dragging them by their feet.
Shepperd has been charged with 2 counts of permitting abuse of a minor and Hildbrand has been charged with 2 counts of domestic battery in the first degree.
