Two Watertown residents arrested on child abuse charges

Two Watertown individuals have been charged with child abuse regarding a 7-year-old child. According to Northeast Radio SD News 25-year-old Davon Scott Walton and 30-year-old Taylor Ann Merkel are the two facing charges after the child was discovered to have sustained injuries. The investigation into the matter began October 24^th when Merkel brought the child to the hospital with flu like symptoms. Medical professionals determined the child was suffering from extensive bruising and possible internal injuries. During the course of the investigation, police claim Merkel blamed the injuries on the child falling down the stairs. Merkel faces child abuse, victim greater than seven years old which is a felony while Walton faces felony assault, cruelty to a minor and aggravated domestic assault charges.