Milledgeville babysitter charged with first-degree cruelty to children

According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, 27-year-old Sara Ellen Smith has been arrested and charged with first-degree cruelty to children.

MILLEDGEVILLE, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A Milledgeville woman is facing serious charges after investigators say a four-month-old child suffered multiple injuries while in her care.

Authorities say the case began on February 23, 2026, when the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office requested the GBI’s assistance in an investigation involving an infant with multiple injuries.

Investigators determined that Smith had been babysitting a friend’s four-month-old child earlier that month. During that time, officials say the child suffered several broken bones and other injuries.

Smith was booked into the Baldwin County Jail.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Once complete, the case will be turned over to the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit for prosecution.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the GBI’s Milledgeville Regional Investigative Office at 478-445-4173. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS or online through the GBI’s tip submission portal.