A Memphis mother is now facing child neglect charges after authorities say she repeatedly failed to bring her infant son to critical medical appointments — even after doctors discovered he had multiple unexplained fractures.
Kayla Antonette Wells, 24, was booked into the Shelby County Jail on Tuesday on a child neglect charge.
What Led to the Arrest
The case began on April 23, when Memphis Police responded to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, after a possible child abuse complaint was reported by hospital staff.
Wells had brought her 6-month-old son to the hospital complaining of congestion and a possible arm injury. Medical professionals examined the infant and discovered something far more alarming — the baby had multiple unexplained fractures that doctors suspected were caused by non-accidental trauma.
Further testing then revealed the child had an underlying bone disorder that may have contributed to the fractures.
Mother Warned — and Still Did Nothing
Despite being fully informed of her son’s diagnosis and the medical care plan required to protect him from further injury, Wells allegedly took no action.
According to court records, Wells and her son were a repeated no-show for follow-up appointments over a span of more than two months — from May 6 through July 13. Doctors needed to see the child regularly to manage his bone condition and prevent additional fractures. None of those visits happened.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Wells was arrested and booked on a $10,000 bond. She appeared via video arraignment on Wednesday and has a bail review hearing scheduled for Thursday.
Authorities have not released any information regarding the current condition of the infant or who is caring for him while his mother’s case moves through the courts.
Child neglect charges in Tennessee can carry serious penalties, particularly in cases involving young children with documented medical needs.
The investigation is ongoing.