Covington, TN – A 25-year-old woman from Tennessee is facing child abuse and neglect charges after allegedly abandoning her 2-year-old son inside a grocery store and later assaulting him in front of shocked shoppers.
Incident at Covington Cash Savers Grocery Store
The disturbing scene unfolded at the Cash Savers discount grocery store in Covington last Wednesday, according to a Covington Police press release.
Witnesses told authorities that employees found a toddler alone at the store’s service desk. A store-wide announcement was made over the intercom in an effort to locate his guardian.
After nearly 10 minutes, Lashona Johnson, 25, approached the service desk and allegedly told the child, “You know I’m going to beat your a—, right?” before striking him multiple times in full view of customers.
Police Say Surveillance Confirmed Witness Accounts
Investigators say Johnson pulled and dragged the child aggressively toward the checkout line, where she continued hitting him on the back before leaving the store.
Detectives later reviewed surveillance footage, which reportedly matched witness statements. The Department of Children’s Services (DCS) was contacted and has since joined the ongoing investigation.
According to police, Johnson admitted to being the woman seen in the footage. The 2-year-old boy has been placed in his father’s custody while DCS continues to evaluate the family situation.
Arrest and Charges
Johnson was arrested the same day and booked into the Tipton County Jail on $50,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday to face child abuse and neglect charges.
Covington Police Chief Donna Turner praised witnesses for stepping forward, saying:
“It is a troubling video to watch. It was absolutely the right call to report the incident. Our efforts ensured the child’s welfare was checked and that this doesn’t happen again.”
What to Do if You Witness Child Abuse
- Do not intervene directly if it may put you in danger.
- Contact police or store security immediately if in a public space.
- Provide detailed information—location, suspect description, and nature of abuse.
- Document what you saw, if safe to do so, for investigators.
- Follow up anonymously with child welfare services if needed.
Dangers of Child Abuse
Child abuse not only causes immediate physical harm but also leads to long-term emotional trauma and developmental issues. Authorities urge anyone who witnesses child abuse or neglect to report it immediately to local law enforcement or child protection hotlines. Early intervention can help prevent tragedies and ensure a safe environment for children.
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