03/22/2024 - Woman Arrested for Child Neglect, Boyfriend Wanted for Child Abuse.

A Springfield woman, Kaytlynn Elizabeth Palmer, 24, has been arrested for Child Neglect, and her boyfriend, James Brett Waddell, 38, is wanted for Child Abuse following an extreme disciplinary action on a child.

On March 14, 2024, the Springfield Police Department received a report from the Florida Department of Children and Families about a possible child abuse incident.

Following the report, the Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center conducted a Child Protective Interview with the child which revealed extensive bruising on the child’s lower back, buttocks, thighs, and arms. The investigation revealed the injuries were the result of extreme disciplinary actions by Waddell on the child.

Following the incident, Palmer told the child’s daycare she was keeping the child home due to the injuries caused by Waddell. Additionally, she did not seek medical attention for the child until the Florida Department of Children and Families intervened.

“All adults in the State of Florida are mandatory reporters. That makes it even more troubling when caregivers fail to protect children. We will not tolerate it and will continue to aggressively investigate reports of child abuse and seek justice for victims,” said Chief Barry Roberts.

Palmer was taken into custody by the Springfield Police Department on March 21, 2024 and transported to the Bay County Jail to await first appearance.

Waddell’s location is currently unknown, but it is believed he fled to Alabama.

Anyone with information on Waddell's location or with information related to this investigation is asked to contact Investigator Raven Rowland at (850) 872-7545. Anonymous tips may be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (850) 785-TIPS.

The Springfield Police Department would like to thank the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center for their assistance in this investigation.