3-year-old scalded by hot water; Babysitter’s boyfriend charged

SUMTER COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A child is recovering from second- and third-degree burns after being scalded with water.

Steve Johnson, 24, of Sumter is charged with unlawful neglect of a child or helpless person. He was arrested on Friday, July 29.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, on Monday, July 25, Johnson used a shower wand with scalding water on a child’s buttocks and leg areas.

Investigators say the child was screaming throughout the incident.

Medics first transported the victim to Palmetto Health Tuomey. The child was then transported to the Augusta Burn Center.

We’re told Johnson is the boyfriend of the victim’s babysitter.