Five-Year-Old Boy Allegedly Burned with Cigarette by Mother in Augusta, Georgia; Arrest Made

AUGUSTA, GA — A chilling case of child abuse has emerged in Augusta, Georgia, after a five-year-old boy was reportedly burned by his mother, Tisheika Washington, using a lit cigarette. The incident, which occurred on April 3, 2025, has shocked the local community and prompted immediate action from school officials, law enforcement, and child protective services.

Discovery at School

The alarming case began when the child’s teacher at Richmond Hill Elementary School noticed a disturbing burn mark on the boy’s back. The teacher, concerned for the child’s safety, immediately reported the injury to school administration. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the burn was consistent with a cigarette burn, raising serious concerns about possible child abuse.

The boy, when questioned, quietly stated, “She did it,” referring to his mother, Tisheika Washington. This statement, combined with the visible injuries, led school staff to alert child services and law enforcement. The child also had a previous burn on his temple, which authorities now believe may have been caused by the same form of punishment.

Law Enforcement Responds Quickly

Following the report, deputies arrived at the family’s home, where they located Washington. She was arrested and charged with cruelty to children in the first degree. Authorities took the child into protective custody and placed him with a family member while the investigation continues.

The boy was immediately examined by medical professionals, who confirmed the severity of his injuries. Although the burns were not life-threatening, they were serious and required immediate treatment. Experts noted that burns caused by a lit cigarette are particularly damaging, not only physically but emotionally as well.

A History of Alleged Abuse

This incident is not the first time the child has been injured in this manner. A previous burn found on the boy’s temple was also believed to have been inflicted by Washington. The teacher had reported the earlier injury to child services, but it was not investigated until the more recent incident came to light. Law enforcement is now reviewing the case and considering additional charges against Washington as they continue to investigate the full extent of the abuse.

Child advocacy groups have expressed their concern over the pattern of abuse and emphasized the need for increased vigilance in identifying signs of child mistreatment. Experts have noted that burns caused by cigarettes are a clear indication of deliberate harm, often reflecting a pattern of abuse rather than isolated incidents of neglect.

Community Reaction

The news of the abuse has stunned the Augusta community. Residents who knew the family expressed shock and disbelief, as Tisheika Washington was well-known in the area. “I just can’t believe it,” said one neighbor. “She seemed like a regular mom, but no one knew what was going on behind closed doors. It’s heartbreaking to hear that this child was suffering.”

The case has sparked widespread outrage, with many community members calling for justice for the young boy. Local child advocacy groups have voiced their commitment to supporting the child through the recovery process and ensuring that similar cases of abuse are reported and addressed quickly.

The Importance of Recognizing Abuse

This case highlights the critical importance of recognizing signs of abuse and acting quickly to protect vulnerable children. Experts stress that signs of abuse, such as cigarette burns, should never be overlooked. In cases like this, where the child’s safety was brought to light by a concerned teacher, the importance of timely intervention cannot be overstated.

Child protection services have been praised for their swift action in removing the child from the dangerous environment and placing him in a safe home. Additionally, the school’s role in noticing the injuries and reporting them to authorities played a crucial role in protecting the child from further harm.

Washington’s Arrest and Upcoming Court Hearing

Tisheika Washington has been charged with cruelty to children and is currently being held at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center. She is expected to appear in court later this month for a preliminary hearing. As the investigation continues, law enforcement is exploring additional charges related to the ongoing abuse.

The child is now in the care of a family member, where he is receiving the medical and psychological support he needs to recover from the trauma he experienced. Experts are providing counseling to help him process the emotional and psychological toll of the abuse.

A Call for Justice

The community remains in shock, but there is also a sense of unity as residents rally together to support the victim and call for justice. Local organizations dedicated to protecting children are urging people to be vigilant and report any signs of abuse. “Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and loving environment,” said a local child advocate. “We must do everything we can to protect children like this boy from harm.”

As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to mourn the devastating betrayal of trust by a mother who was supposed to care for and protect her child. The hope is that justice will be served and that the boy will have the opportunity to heal from this painful chapter in his life.