Woman Faces Charges in Horrific Child Abuse Case

By KIM SCHRINER

GILBERT, Ariz. - A Gilbert woman is accused of sexual conduct with a minor -- her 10-year-old adopted son.

According to police, the victim told them that his 39-year-old mother bound his hands and feet, forced dog excrement into his mouth and duct taped it shut.

The victim added that she burned his penis with a lighter, then sodomized him repeatedly with a toothbrush. Police say there was another incident where Jennifer Barnes repeatedly burned the victim's penis with a curling iron. In both cases, the victim bled.

During a physical exam, it was discovered that the child had large scars on his pelvic area and legs, consistent with healed burns. He also had three distinct scars, consistent with his disclosure of being sodomized.

During an interview with a detective, Barnes stated that she was the sole caregiver during the time of the incidents the victim discussed, but she provided inconsistent statements concerning the investigation.

The victim told police the abuse started in May 2010, but Barnes denied having any knowledge of the child's injuries or the scars.

She was arrested and faces sexual conduct with a minor and child abuse charges. She remains in custody without bond.

According to court paperwork, there are previous reports with Child Protective Services involving Barnes and her son.

Barnes is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 15.