WARSAW — Warsaw Police Detectives have completed an investigation into the child abuse and battery of a two year old victim that was struck multiple times with a belt causing moderate injuries.

Devan Bounds

The investigation found that on Aug. 8, the suspect, Devan Bounds, was placed in care of his girlfriend’s children while she was at work. During that time, the victim wet her pants and Bounds became angry and struck the victim with a belt multiple times. The belt caused multiple welts and several lacerations to the back and buttocks of the child.

Later, the victim’s Aunt observed the injuries and contacted authorities while she was babysitting. In the course of the investigation, the victim’s mother (Bounds’ girlfriend) first admitted to being the one who disciplined the victim with a belt, but later recanted her story and advised that Bounds was responsible for the injuries. She stated that she was intimidated and scared of Bounds, who has been physical with her in the past and she was covering for him. She further stated that Bounds made her delete texts off her phone after he found out the police were involved and investigating.

Devan Bounds, 23, Warsaw, was booked into the Kosciusko County Jail this morning on three counts, including; battery to a person less than fourteen years of age by an adult, a level 5 felony, battery causing moderate bodily injury, a level 6 felony and obstruction of justice, a level 6 felony. His bond was set at $35,000.

Additional charges may be filed. Warsaw Police were assisted in their investigation by the Indiana Division of Child Services.