Before decapitation, family was warned

Associated Press

CINCINNATI

Authorities say social workers checked numerous times on a 3-month-old baby who authorities say was later decapitated by her mother, and had warned relatives to keep the mother away from the child unless social workers were present.

The Hamilton County prosecutor’s office on Thursday released information detailing checks made on 3-month-old Jayniah Watkins since the end of January.

The baby’s mother, Deasia Watkins, was charged with aggravated murder after her daughter’s body was found Monday on a kitchen counter in the home of an aunt.

Authorities say the baby had been decapitated and stabbed multiple times with a large chef’s knife that was then placed in the baby’s hand. Police found 20-year-old Watkins in bed covered with blood.

Social workers said the baby appeared healthy at their visits.