A Georgia teenager, Leticia Rodriguez, 17, was arrested after police say she was found digging a hole in her backyard to bury her newborn baby. The tragic discovery was made in Marietta on Sunday, November 24, following a report of the infant’s death, the Marietta Police Department confirmed in a statement.
Disturbing Allegations
Police arrived at the scene shortly after 3 p.m. and discovered the deceased newborn inside the home. According to a warrant obtained by Fox 5 Atlanta, Rodriguez gave birth to the baby roughly six hours before the incident. Authorities allege that she wrapped the infant’s body in a blanket and grocery bag and attempted to bury it in the backyard.
A family member reportedly caught Rodriguez digging the hole, prompting them to call the police. Officer Chuck McPhilamy of the Marietta Police Department said, “We did see the mother of the deceased infant digging a hole in the backyard in an attempt to create that situation. The infant was never actually buried.”
Felony Charges
Rodriguez, who was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital for treatment, faces multiple felony charges, including concealing a death, abuse of a dead body, and abandonment of a dead body. Upon discharge from the hospital, she is expected to be transported to the Cobb County Adult Detention Center, where she will be held without bond.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, with police awaiting the results of the medical examiner’s report to determine the baby’s cause of death. Authorities indicated that additional charges could be filed depending on the findings.
Community Reacts
The incident has sent shockwaves through the quiet neighborhood. Longtime resident Theresa Neill expressed her disbelief, telling Atlanta News First, “I’ve been here 30 years and nothing like that [has] happened in this neighborhood as far as I know. It’s just sad that something like that has shown up and you know my heart goes out to anyone who [has] lost children.”
Legal and Emotional Implications
The case raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death and the mental and emotional state of the young mother. Experts emphasize the importance of addressing teen pregnancies and ensuring access to resources that may prevent similar tragedies.
Police urge anyone with information about the case to come forward as they work to piece together the events that led to this heartbreaking loss.
