THEODORE, Ala. – A local mother and her boyfriend have each entered not‑guilty pleas to three counts of aggravated child abuse. Sara Sprinkle appeared before a judge on Tuesday, who appointed a public defender to represent her. The following day, Gregory Sullivan’s attorney entered a not‑guilty plea on his behalf.
Investigation origins
Investigators say the case began when the couple brought one of their two‑month‑old twins to USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital. Hospital staff found the infant severely malnourished and in critical condition, prompting them to alert police.
Police then visited the family’s home and examined the couple’s four other children. District Attorney Keith Blackwood reported that the other twin and a one‑year‑old sibling were also suffering from willful neglect.
Current status of the children
The hospitalized twin is no longer in critical condition and continues to improve, according to medical staff. The remaining children have been placed in state custody while the investigation proceeds.
Legal proceedings
Both Sprinkle and Sullivan are scheduled to return to court for preliminary hearings on November 10. The charges carry significant penalties, reflecting the seriousness of aggravated child abuse under Alabama law.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern for the children’s welfare and called for continued vigilance in protecting vulnerable families. Child‑welfare advocates emphasized the importance of early intervention and support services to prevent similar tragedies.
Theodore Police Department is continuing its investigation and will provide updates as the case moves forward.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
