Bowman woman charged after 12-year-old found severely malnourished

A woman from Bowman, South Carolina, has been charged following the discovery of a 12-year-old girl in a state of severe malnutrition, according to Live 5 WCSC.

The Orangeburg County Sheriff's Office reported that deputies were called to a location in Bowman where they found the child suffering from severe malnutrition. The girl weighed only 47 pounds, had frail bones, and was limping due to her condition, as stated in the arrest warrant.

Authorities also found that the child had no education records beyond kindergarten, raising further concerns about her care. The woman, identified as 43-year-old Chiquitta Dawkins, was charged with unlawful conduct toward a child, according to WCBD Count on 2.

Orangeburg County Sheriff Leroy Ravenell described the situation as extremely serious, emphasizing that "leaving a child to become this sick, this malnourished is the utmost in despicable," according to Live 5 WCSC.

The investigation and charges highlight ongoing concerns about child welfare in the region. Authorities continue to monitor the case as it develops.