Two Kissimmee residents were arrested Jan. 2 following an investigation into the alleged abuse of a male infant who was hospitalized with multiple injuries, according to arrest affidavits filed by the Kissimmee Police Department.
Sheila Nanyely Bell-Cabrera, 24, was charged with child neglect with great bodily harm, while Jonathan David, 24, was arrested on a separate charge of aggravated child abuse.
Police were initially dispatched Jan. 1 to a Kissimmee address in reference to allegations of child abuse. Investigators later learned the infant victim had been transported earlier that day to Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando, where medical staff documented numerous injuries, including healing fractures, bruising and signs of malnutrition, according to the affidavits. Medical findings cited by police indicate the child suffered bilateral healing fractures to the tibia, a healing fracture to the radius of the arm, bruising to the face and body and trauma to the rectal area. Physicians also noted the child appeared extremely malnourished, with a protruding rib cage and spine.
According to investigators, David admitted to physically battering the child. The affidavit states David confessed to striking the infant in the face with his hand and acknowledged causing injuries that resulted in great bodily harm. Police allege the abuse occurred over a period of time while David acted as the child’s primary caretaker.
Bell-Cabrera, identified as the child’s mother, is accused of knowingly failing to protect the infant despite being aware of the abuse. Investigators allege she was present during some incidents, observed the child’s injuries as they worsened and did not report the abuse to law enforcement or the Department of Children and Families.
The affidavits state Bell-Cabrera admitted she had knowledge of the injuries and was present when David physically disciplined the child. Despite this, police allege she continued to allow David access to the child.
A DCF child protective investigator responded to Nemours Children’s Hospital and implemented a safety plan, placing the child in the care of a relative.
David is being held without bond at the Osceola County Jail. Bond has been set for Bell-Cabrera at $5,000 on the conditions that she have no contact with the victim or David, have no contact with a minor child under the age of 18, that she must remain within the tri-county area and must surrender her passport within 72 hours of release.
