MIAMI SHORES, FL — A Florida mother is behind bars following allegations of severe abuse against her teenage son and a 65-year-old man who had sheltered the family, according to police. Authorities accuse Jasmine Jean-Baptiste, 31, of subjecting both her son and the elderly man to various forms of physical abuse over an extended period, including an incident that left the man blind in one eye.
Jean-Baptiste moved in with the elderly man nine years ago, a gesture stemming from his goodwill and concern for her young children. However, over time, this act of kindness reportedly turned into a nightmare of repeated abuse. Police state that Jean-Baptiste exploited the man’s compassion, allegedly striking him with objects like knives and sharpeners.
The allegations came to light after a disturbing event at her son’s school, where a coach reportedly overheard Jean-Baptiste threaten to kill her son. This prompted a probe by the Florida Department of Children and Families. During the investigation, the man confessed his fear of Jean-Baptiste, detailing instances where she assaulted him, causing severe injuries, including blindness in one eye and the loss of a tooth.
Reports indicate that the abuse mirrored past patterns her son experienced from a previous stepfather, who also reportedly mistreated him. In a harrowing testimony, her son recounted being forced to squat for hours and endure physical punishment involving belt buckles, leaving lasting scars.
Law enforcement notes that a witness observed a consistent pattern of violence and abuse within the household. Supporting evidence, such as photographs depicting injuries like bruises and lacerations on the elderly man, corroborated the claims of ongoing abuse.
Confronted with allegations, the 65-year-old man expressed his inability to defend himself, constrained by societal norms against a man retaliating against a woman. “She is very strong,” he allegedly told authorities, highlighting his physical disadvantage and fear.
The case has taken a significant turn with Jean-Baptiste’s arrest. She now faces serious charges, including aggravated child abuse and aggravated abuse of an elderly or disabled adult. She remains in custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center without bond.
As authorities continue their investigation, the community grapples with the unsettling revelation, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and reporting suspected abuse to prevent such tragedies.