Baytown, TX – A Baytown, Texas mother, Rachel Nicole Blaylock, 40, has been charged with injury to a child after her 11-year-old nonverbal son, who has autism, was discovered severely malnourished, weighing just 46 pounds, with feces caked under his fingernails, according to authorities.
Welfare Check Sparks Investigation
The case began on May 13, when police conducted an urgent welfare check at a home on the 200 block of Homan Street, outside of Houston. Officers reported that the home was infested with flies and reeked of fecal matter, with the smell described as overpowering.
Blaylock led officers to her son’s bedroom, claiming she believed he had autism, although he had never been formally diagnosed. She stated her son would not use the toilet or wear a diaper, and allegedly threw his feces around the room. The boy’s fingernails were also covered with feces.
His bedroom door was a screen door locked from the outside, reportedly so Blaylock could keep an eye on him, as per the reports.
Authorities also noted that Child Protective Services had previously instructed Blaylock to take her son to a hospital due to his malnourished state, but she had refused, reportedly saying she did not want to take him to a doctor she considered unhelpful.
Family and Living Conditions
Cops interviewed Blaylock’s mother, who also lived on the property. She reportedly criticized her daughter’s parenting, saying,
“She is not a good mom.”
The complaint states that Blaylock often told her son to “shut up” and forced him to sleep on a mattress in an empty room. Additionally, Blaylock and her boyfriend allegedly used the $200 monthly food stamp benefits for themselves rather than providing for the child.
Medical Findings
Paramedics transported the boy to a hospital, where he was diagnosed with severe autism. Doctors also found:
- Extensive dental decay due to neglect
- Signs raising concern for possible sexual abuse
The boy’s condition highlighted significant child neglect and unsafe living conditions.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Blaylock was arrested by police on October 3 and booked into Harris County Jail, though she has since bonded out. Her next court appearance is scheduled for November 18. Authorities continue to monitor the case and work with child protective services to ensure the boy’s safety.
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