A disturbing case out of Alabama is raising serious questions about child safety and discipline after a mother was arrested for allegedly using bear spray on her own kids.
According to reports, 37-year-old Christie Lashay Williams is facing charges after police say she sprayed both of her young children in the face with bear spray — a substance designed to stop wild animals, not be used on humans.
Authorities were called to the scene after a 911 caller reported a child running down the street crying for help. The caller described the child as having a puffy face and swollen, red eyes. When officers arrived, both children — who are elementary school age — reportedly told police their mother had sprayed them.
One of the children told investigators the spray hit their eyes and mouth.
Both kids were transported to Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham, where they received treatment.
When officers later searched the home, they reportedly recovered bear spray believed to have been used in the incident. While speaking with police, Williams allegedly claimed her children were “acting unruly” when she used the spray.
“I think it is terrible. I do not think you should be punishing your children with a spray that can be used on a bear. That is not to be used on humans.”
That statement came from Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin, who spoke out on the case as details continued to unfold.
Williams was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse/torture, a serious felony that could carry up to 10 years in prison. She was booked into the Jefferson County Jail and later released after posting a $15,000 bond.
As of now, both children are in the custody of the Alabama Department of Human Resources.
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