The thought of anyone hurting a child turns my stomach. Violence of any kind is difficult to process, but when children suffer at the hands of it, it feels especially sickening. As mothers, when any of us hears about a child going through that, we can’t help but see our own child’s face in them and wonder what can be done to bring them justice. In the case of Cleveland mom Antavia Kennibrew and her 5-year-old daughter, A’Marie, fathoming even a fraction of their pain after what they’ve endured is nearly impossible.
A’Marie was in the care of trusted family members while Antavia Kennibrew was undergoing a medical procedure. Hours later, the mom received a call from a frantic relative who said the child had wandered off. A panicked Kennibrew rushed to her family’s home, where she discovered EMS trucks surrounding the property and learned that her daughter had allegedly been assaulted by a group of 10-year-olds.
“I literally saw the worst thing ever! I saw my daughter unrecognizable,” Kennibrew told 19 News. “I couldn’t wrap my head around it.”
In a Facebook post, the mother alleged that she found her daughter bruised, with markings that indicated she had been strangled. Her eyes and lips were bloodied, and chunks of her hair had been ripped from her scalp. She also claimed that sticks had been shoved down her daughter’s throat and claimed the child was sexually assaulted.
According to 19 News, police have been tight-lipped about the ongoing investigation but released the following statement:
“The Cleveland Division of Police Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit is actively investigating a case involving multiple children under the age of 10, both as victims and as suspects of the investigation. Given the sensitive nature of the matter, the release of further information at this time could jeopardize the integrity of the investigation and violate the constitutional rights and privacy of those involved.”
On social media, Kennibrew reaffirmed her commitment to seeking justice for her daughter. She said her little girl has been deeply traumatized by the experience and is exhibiting behavioral issues, the Daily Mail reported. The mom also noted that she has sought professional help for her daughter and plans to enter therapy herself to cope with the trauma.
“I want her to be somewhat of a normal five-year-old again,” Kennibrew told the outlet.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, the National Sexual Assault Hotline provides confidential 24/7 support. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673) or chat online at RAINN.
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