BARTOW, FLORIDA – A Florida mother faces severe charges in relation to the tragic death of her 4-year-old adopted son from Haiti. Patricia Saintizaire, 36, has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, and tampering with a witness by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Grady Judd described the situation as horrific, stating that the boy died as a result of being beaten to death.
Saintizaire also has a 16-year-old son whom she adopted from Haiti, who is now under protective custody. The incident came to light when Orlando Health Hospital staff reported the suspicious circumstances surrounding the 4-year-old boy’s death due to an abdominal bleed that was deemed unrepairable by emergency surgery.
The subsequent autopsy revealed that the child suffered assault/blunt force trauma leading to his death, which was classified as a homicide. The examination of the boy’s body showed scarring, including new and old injuries, indicating a pattern of abuse during his time in the United States with Saintizaire.
Further investigations uncovered videos from home surveillance cameras showing Saintizaire allegedly physically abusing the boy. The disturbing footage captured instances of hitting and throwing the child into a pool with his hands tied behind his back. Saintizaire’s husband, who was not involved in disciplining the children, denied any knowledge of the abuse when questioned by authorities.
The tragic case has shed light on the importance of protecting children from abuse and violence. Sheriff Judd emphasized the organization’s commitment to pursuing justice for child victims and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the child’s suffering and bring justice to the family of the young boy who lost his life in such tragic circumstances.