Miami-Dade County, Florida — A 26-year-old mother is facing multiple felony charges after deputies say her 7-month-old son was found with severe injuries, including a spinal fracture and broken bones in both legs, while under her care.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the infant was brought to Holtz Children’s Hospital on December 11 after concerns were raised about pain in his left leg.
Doctors discover multiple serious injuries
Medical staff performed imaging and testing, which revealed a fracture to the child’s spine, a break in his left femur, and fractures to both the left and right tibia, according to an arrest report.
Deputies said the severity and nature of the injuries prompted an immediate investigation.
The child was living at a residence near the 1300 block of Northwest 79th Street in the Gladeview area at the time.
Mother initially denies abuse
Investigators identified the child’s mother as Johana Barrera Delgado, a Nicaraguan national.
According to deputies, Barrera Delgado initially denied abusing her son, claiming the injuries may have occurred while the baby was being babysat by a family member.
Babysitter questioned by investigators
On December 17, the babysitter spoke with deputies and described an incident in which she left the baby on a bed with her daughter before briefly stepping away.
She told investigators that moments later she heard the infant crying and returned to the room, stating she did not know whether her daughter may have struck the child.
The following day, the babysitter went to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau, where detectives arranged a recorded phone call between her and Barrera Delgado.
Alleged attempt to influence witness
During that call, deputies say Barrera Delgado instructed the babysitter to “continue with the story” previously given to law enforcement and reassured her that “everything would be OK.”
Investigators also said Barrera Delgado claimed the baby had been dropped off at her home with a swollen left leg and insisted the injuries did not happen while the child was in her care.
Mother later admits additional details
Later that same day, Barrera Delgado arrived at the Special Victims Bureau for an interview.
According to investigators, she admitted the infant had fallen off her bed multiple times while under her supervision. She also admitted to grabbing the baby’s left leg and placing his foot into his mouth, the arrest report states.
Read Also: Alabama Parents Charged After Teen Lived Alone With Seven Dogs for Nearly a Year, Deputies Say
Charges and custody status
Jail records show Barrera Delgado is charged with:
- Aggravated child abuse causing great bodily harm
- Child neglect causing great bodily harm
- Tampering with a victim or witness
She was placed on an immigration hold and remains held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. As of Friday morning, her bond was listed as “to be set.”
Court records also show she was ordered to:
- Have no contact with the victim
- Not possess any drugs, weapons, or firearms
Investigation ongoing
Deputies said the case remains under investigation as the infant continues receiving medical care. Authorities have not released additional details about the child’s condition or custody arrangements.
Officials emphasized the importance of reporting suspected child abuse immediately, noting that early intervention can be critical in preventing life-threatening injuries.
What more should be done to protect infants who cannot speak for themselves? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
