Orangeburg County, SC Man Charged After Child Found Severely Injured

Orangeburg, SC – An investigation into severe injuries suffered by a 1-year-old child led Orangeburg County deputies to what authorities described as a "deplorable" home, where they also discovered a vulnerable adult allegedly living in dangerous conditions.

According to the Orangeburg County Sheriff's Office, Medical University of South Carolina personnel notified deputies Friday about a 1-year-old with severe injuries. The investigation subsequently led deputies to a residence on Mannlicher Drive.

Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said investigators allegedly found trash, an insect infestation and no running water or electricity inside the home.

A vulnerable 42-year-old woman was also discovered in a bed containing maggots and rotten food, according to the sheriff's office.

"This began as an investigation into a child's injuries and wound up being a neglect and abuse situation," Ravenell said. He described the home's condition as "absolutely and disgustingly appalling."

Authorities said 25-year-old Justice Anderson of Orangeburg has been charged with one count of unlawfully placing a child at risk and one count of neglect toward a vulnerable adult.

The allegations against Anderson have not been proven in court. The sheriff's office did not provide additional information in its announcement about the circumstances surrounding the child's injuries or the relationship among Anderson, the child and the vulnerable adult.

Bond for Anderson was set at $135,000, according to the sheriff's office.

Orangeburg is located in Orangeburg County, roughly 40 miles southeast of Columbia. Authorities did not immediately announce additional arrests or charges in connection with the investigation.