COVINGTON, Tenn. (WMC) — Lashona Johnson, a 25-year-old mother from Dyersburg, Tennessee, has been arrested and charged with child abuse and neglect following an alarming incident captured on surveillance video at a local grocery store. The incident, which took place on October 1, 2025, has shocked the community, leading to an immediate response from police and child welfare services.
What Happened
The disturbing incident occurred at the Cash Saver on Highway 51 in Covington, Tennessee, where Lashona Johnson was seen on security footage mistreating her two-year-old son. According to the Covington Police Department, the child was left unattended at the store’s service desk before employees noticed and called out for help using the intercom system.
About 10 minutes later, Johnson approached the desk and reportedly told her son, “You know I’m going to beat your a**, right?” She then grabbed the child aggressively, dragging him through the store before repeatedly striking him on his back. The entire event was captured on the store’s surveillance video.
Who Is Lashona Johnson?
Lashona Johnson, a 25-year-old mother from Dyersburg, Tennessee, was identified by police after reviewing the store’s security footage and speaking to witnesses. Johnson admitted to being the woman in the video during questioning by law enforcement.
Johnson is now facing serious charges of child abuse and neglect, as her actions have raised alarm within both the local and broader Mid-South communities. Authorities have since ensured that the toddler, whose identity has not been disclosed, was safely released to his father while further investigations continue.
Career, Legacy, or Background
While Johnson’s actions have sparked widespread outrage, her case has also highlighted the importance of vigilant communities in reporting potential child abuse. The quick actions of a concerned citizen and store employees played a crucial role in ensuring that the incident was reported to the police, leading to the swift arrest of Johnson.
The case has sparked conversations about the need for stronger protections and services for children facing abuse, as well as the crucial role of bystanders in preventing such incidents.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The footage of the incident has stirred strong reactions online, with many condemning Johnson’s actions and expressing concern for the child’s well-being. Social media platforms have flooded with messages of support for the child and condemnation of the abuse, with the hashtag #JusticeForTheToddler gaining traction.
Local officials, including Chief Donna Turner, praised the efforts of the citizen and store employees who reported the incident, calling their actions the “right call” in protecting the child. “It was absolutely the right call to say something and report the incident,” Chief Turner said in a statement.
Official Statements or What Happens Next
The Department of Children Services (DCS) has assisted in the ongoing investigation into the case. According to police, the toddler has been placed in the care of his father while DCS continues to investigate the matter. It is unclear whether Johnson will face further charges or if additional family support services will be provided to the child.
“The video was absolutely troubling to watch. Our efforts provided a way to check on the welfare of the child, provide any services needed in this family through DCS, and to help prevent this from happening again,” said Chief Turner.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Mid-South Mother Arrested After Child Abuse Incident at Covington Grocery Store first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
