The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office arrested a man and woman in connection with the abuse and neglect of a four-year-old child Tuesday morning in Sarasota.

The investigation began January 20 when deputies responded to a residence to assist investigators with the Department of Children and Family Services while they performed a welfare check on a four-year-old child. According to Shane Samuels, DOB 06/23/92, and Jennifer Feddema, DOB 06/22/92, the child suffered an injury to his face after falling in the backyard. The child was removed from the home while the investigation continued. During an examination on January 22, doctors determined the child’s injuries were inconsistent with an accident and displayed severe physical abuse. Further interviews with the child in addition to bruising and hemorrhaging on the child’s face, neck and ears, revealed Samuels forcefully covered the victim’s mouth.

Samuels is charged with a single count of Aggravated Child Abuse and is being held without bond. Feddema is charged with a single count of Child Neglect and was released Wednesday on $10,000 bond. The investigation is ongoing.