In Jefferson City, Tennessee, Michala Annette Morgan Raines and Zechariah Dontae Mills face aggravated child abuse charges after their 15-day-old infant was treated for severe injuries at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital on July 1.

According to arrest warrant affidavits issued on September 17, the newborn suffered a severe laceration in their mouth extending to a punctured esophagus, necessitating surgery and critical care. The parents, unable to explain the injury’s cause, stated the infant began bleeding from the mouth during bottle feeding by Mills.

Both were arrested on September 18, with bonds set at $50,000 each and a condition prohibiting contact with the child. They have posted bond and are scheduled to appear in court on October 9.