HOUSTON — A Harris County judge has set bond conditions for the Houston woman accused of severely beating her friend's 4-year-old daughter.
Tameria Barnett, 30, appeared in court Monday after being freed from jail on a $100,000 bond. Barnett faces one count of felony "injury to a child" after a little girl entrusted to her care was found with injuries.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the child’s condition after the 4-year-old was taken to a hospital. Investigators determined she'd been beaten and she was transferred to Texas Children's Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Barnett allegedly beat the victim for months with a belt, a cord, and her hands, according to court records.
In front of a judge, Barnett admitted to knowing that her handling of the child would cause bruises. It was also revealed that the abuse may have stemmed from issues Barnett had with the child while potty training her.
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According to records, Barnett is a friend of the child’s mother, who is currently incarcerated.
On Monday, the child’s father, Kerrick Anthony, told KHOU 11 that Barnett was the child’s godmother though he didn't know her well. He explained that he gave Barnett temporary guardianship in September while he was moving.
“Due to me moving and transferring to a different apartment I gave her temporary custodial guardianship,” he said. “She just went MIA, she blocked me on all social media. Ignored my calls. Family members pointed me in her direction, her mom appointed her as the godmother.”
Anthony also expressed dissatisfaction with the justice system for Barnett’s release.
“I’m seeking answers, I really came here trying to see if I can get an answer as to why she would do this to my child, also, I’m upset with the justice system, they’re letting anybody go at this point," he said.
Anthony said his daughter is still in the hospital on life support. He described her injuries as “trauma to her brain, bruised ribs, scratches and bruises all over.” He said the 4-year-old also has a screw in her head and can’t breathe on her own.
Barnett is expected to appear in court again in February. Per her bond conditions, she must wear an electronic monitor and have no contact with the victim or her parents, among other conditions.