Caraway Suspect Arrested After Infant Reported With Multiple Injuries

CARAWAY, Ark. — A Caraway suspect was arrested after authorities investigated injuries reported on a 2-month-old infant, according to an affidavit.

On Feb. 12, 2026, a nurse at St. Bernards Medical Center reported possible child abuse involving an infant who had been brought to the hospital with multiple injuries. The alleged abuse occurred at a residence in the 400 block of North New York in Caraway.

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The Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division accepted the case for investigation.

According to the affidavit, photos and medical records showed the infant had a bruise to the left angle of the jaw, abrasions on the chin, bruising on the left shoulder, a bruise on the upper lip and bruising on the left side of the scalp.

Investigators said the injuries occurred while the infant was in the care of Jacob Ian Freeman.

Authorities reported the residence at the time was occupied by the infant’s mother and Freeman, identified as the father. The affidavit states the injuries occurred while the infant was in Freeman’s care.

According to a Children’s Advocacy Center report referenced in the affidavit, the infant’s mother questioned Freeman about the injuries. Freeman initially said he did not know what had happened before stating the infant fell off a bed.

Sheriff’s investigators wrote in the affidavit that the injuries were not consistent with a fall.

On Feb. 27, 2026, Freeman was interviewed at the sheriff’s office and maintained that the infant had fallen off the bed.

Jacob Ian Freeman, 19, of Caraway, was arrested for second-degree battery. His next court date is March 19. Bail was set at $100,000 cash or surety.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.