Covington Mother Arrested After Dragging and Beating 2-Year-Old Son in Grocery Store After Intercom Announcement
COVINGTON, Tennessee — A 25-year-old mother has been arrested after dragging, striking, and verbally abusing her 2-year-old son inside a Covington grocery store — moments after staff made a storewide intercom announcement that the child had been left unattended.
Staff Found Toddler Alone at Service Desk
The disturbing incident took place at Cash Savers in Covington, where employees reportedly found the toddler alone at the service counter. After waiting several minutes with no guardian in sight, workers used the store’s intercom to announce that the boy’s parent should return to the front desk.
According to police, ten minutes later, Lashona Johnson arrived and immediately began berating her son, saying, “You know I’m going to beat your a—, right?” She then grabbed the child by the arm and dragged him toward the checkout area, witnesses said.
Surveillance Video Confirms Physical Abuse
Police reviewed surveillance footage showing Johnson yanking the child through the store aisles and striking him multiple times in front of customers. The video confirmed witness accounts that she hit the toddler in the back several times while he cried and tried to pull away.
Store employees and bystanders quickly called 911 after witnessing the assault. Responding officers from the Covington Police Department located Johnson inside the store and detained her without incident.
The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) was immediately contacted and opened an investigation into the child’s safety.
Mother Arrested and Charged
Johnson was booked into the Tipton County Jail on charges of child abuse and neglect. Her bond was set at $50,000, according to police.
During questioning, Johnson reportedly admitted she was the person seen on surveillance video. The 2-year-old was later released into the custody of his father while DCS continues its welfare review.
Police: “Thankful Someone Spoke Up”
Covington Police Chief Donna Turner praised witnesses for reporting the incident instead of ignoring it.
“I am so thankful that a citizen and the witnesses reported this incident. It is a troubling video to watch. It was absolutely the right call to say something and report the incident,” Turner said in a statement.
Police said the department’s quick response ensured the child’s immediate protection and allowed investigators to coordinate with state child services for follow-up care.
Ongoing Investigation and Child Safety Reminder
Detectives continue to review footage, interview witnesses, and prepare evidence for the district attorney’s office, which will determine whether additional charges will be filed.
Authorities reminded residents that any suspicion of child abuse or neglect should be reported immediately to local law enforcement or DCS. Early intervention, they said, can prevent future harm and connect families to support services.
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