Foster parents in Smiths Falls facing assault charges after 14-month-old treated for injuries

Two foster parents in Smiths Falls, Ont. are facing aggravated assault charges after a 14-month-old child was treated for injuries at the children’s hospital in Ottawa.

Police in Smiths Falls launched an investigation in mid-February and investigators worked with the Child and Family Services departments from Smiths Falls and Ottawa, and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

“This is an extremely sensitive and unfortunate investigation,” Chief Chris Kettlye said in a statement to CTV News Ottawa.

“The foster parents have been arrested and charged with one count each of aggravated assault due to the nature of injuries that the child presented with. Our investigation has not determined any previous similar incidents.“

Kettlye said the child has been removed from the residence and is under the care of Child and Family Services.

Police did not release the names of the accused.

Kettyle tells CTV News Ottawa the Smiths Falls Police Service is “committed to preventing harm to the community’s most vulnerable residents.”

“This includes managing complex and sensitive investigations involving infants and children when injuries occur,” Kettyle said.

“Such cases require significant resources and focused attention from our officers.”

Smiths Falls is located 78 km southwest of downtown Ottawa.

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