A disturbing child abuse case in South Carolina has led to the arrest of a woman in Sumter County. Authorities say the investigation began after a report of abuse at a home, and what they found has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of a young child. The case is still under investigation as officials continue to gather more details.
Woman arrested on child abuse charges
The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office arrested 30-year-old Hannah Marie Lemke, a resident of Sumter County.
She has been charged with two counts of placing a child at risk or causing harm. The charges were filed after deputies responded to a call about possible child abuse at a home on Lynam Road.
Surveillance footage reveals alleged abuse
According to the incident report, surveillance cameras inside the home captured multiple disturbing incidents involving a 3-year-old child.
In one video dated April 22, 2026, Lemke is seen becoming angry and grabbing the toddler by the throat with both hands. She then allegedly shook and threw the child to the ground while shouting.
Another video from the same day shows her hitting the child with a cooking spoon about 25 times. Officials described this as excessive and said it appeared to be triggered by frustration over a small issue.
Repeated incidents caught on camera
In a separate video recorded on April 23, Lemke is again seen hitting the child with the spoon, this time around 21 times. The report says the incident happened after she became upset over the child’s behaviour.
Other footage shows a pattern of neglect, where Lemke reportedly ignored the child, spent time on her phone, and only responded by shouting at him to stay away.
Authorities also reported that she used abusive language toward the child and physically punished him for minor actions, such as opening a pantry door.
Reports of neglect and unsafe conditions
Investigators were told by another individual that the abuse mainly occurred when Lemke was alone with the child. The same person claimed that neglect was a regular issue.
According to the report:
- The child’s diaper was changed only a few times a day
- The child was sometimes left without food
- Lemke would eat the child’s meals, leaving him with nothing
- The toddler was often left unattended
Officials also said the child had access to dangerous items like kitchen knives, which created serious safety risks.
Child showed signs of fear
The report states that the child would shake in fear when around Lemke. This behaviour raised further concern about the child’s emotional and physical condition.
Such signs are often considered indicators of ongoing abuse and neglect.
Child protection services involved
After Lemke’s arrest, deputies contacted the South Carolina Department of Social Services to ensure the child’s safety.
Authorities have not shared who currently has custody of the child, but officials confirmed that the child is no longer in Lemke’s care.
Custody status and court details
Lemke is currently being held at the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center.
Her bond has been set at $5,000 for each charge, but she has not yet been released. Court records show she remains in custody as the case moves forward.
Investigation still ongoing
The sheriff’s office has confirmed that the investigation is still active. More charges could be filed if additional evidence is found.
Authorities are continuing to review the footage and gather statements to build a complete picture of the case.
