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WINTON – The Hertford County Sheriff’s Office arrested two individuals on Tuesday on charges of child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury and negligent child abuse.

Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes identified the defendants as Cornelius Alexander Hicks, age 21, and 23-year-old Chantal Jewel Godard, both of the Millennium community. Hayes added that Hicks and Godard are the parents of the victim who is a two-month-old infant.

The accused are currently held at the Hertford County Detention Center, each under a $250,000 secured bond. Both have made their first appearance in Hertford County District Court and remain in custody as of Thursday.

Hayes said the investigation began after the Sheriff’s Office received a call from ECU Hospital, where an infant was brought to the Emergency Room with multiple injuries. Investigators and deputies immediately launched an investigation, which led to the determination of probable cause to arrest both parents on the stated charges.

“This is a heartbreaking case, but unfortunately, child abuse is something we see all too often,” said Hayes. “I want to commend my law enforcement personnel for their dedication and hard work in this case. The Hertford County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community and bringing justice to those who harm them — even when the perpetrators are the child’s own parents.”

Hayes praised the work of Captain Chase Oliver, Investigator Clifton Whitby, Deputy Stephani Witzigman, and Investigator Curley on this particular case.

“The Hertford County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work tirelessly to serve and protect the citizens of this county, ensuring that justice is served for all victims,” Hayes added.