When deputies from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office arrived at their home in Belton, South Carolina, they found a horrifying scene.
Their baby daughter was soaked in blood and had bite wounds across her arms, head, ears, face, and back, according to Fox Carolina.
Authorities said she was attacked while resting in her bassinet, with the couple claiming the injuries were caused by a “large rat”, as reported by WSMV.
Officials quickly removed both infants from the home and placed them into protective custody under the Department of Social Services.
A third child who also lives in the household was taken by DSS as well, though no further information about that child has been released.
During interviews, the Beardens confessed that they had known about the rat problem for quite some time.
They told authorities that “field rats” had been a persistent issue in their trailer, but they had done nothing to prevent the rodents from harming their children.
They are now prohibited from seeing or contacting their children unless the Department of Social Services gives special permission.
As the investigation continues, police say the baby girl will need to remain hospitalized for a while longer, according to Fox Carolina.
