Chattanooga, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga has seen a rise in troubling child abuse allegations, with multiple incidents leading to criminal charges. Recent cases involve physical assault, negligence, and intoxication while caring for minors, prompting authorities to emphasize the need for community vigilance in safeguarding children’s welfare. Parents and educators are encouraged to report any signs of abuse or neglect to protect vulnerable youth.
Chattanooga Reports Disturbing Child Abuse Allegations Following Multiple Incidents
Chattanooga, TN – Multiple disturbing incidents involving child abuse allegations have surfaced in recent days, culminating in criminal charges against several individuals. Authorities responded to these alarming cases involving school children and other minors across the area.
Maria Alvarado, a Chattanooga resident, has been charged with aggravated child abuse after reports emerged that she physically assaulted her son. An affidavit indicated that staff at the boy’s school noticed extensive bruising on his back and ribs, prompting them to alert law enforcement. A school counselor documented the injuries with photographs, and the boy expressed concerns about feeling safer with his father due to the abuse he suffered. The father had previously noted bruises on the child and was informed by the boy that his mother would hit him for consuming too much ice cream.
In a related incident, Misty Coleman also faces charges of aggravated child abuse. Coleman is accused of running over a child in the parking lot of the Chattanooga Girl’s Leadership Academy while she was driving away with the car door still open. Security footage captured the moment the vehicle accelerated, hitting the child and causing her to fall. Previous disclosures made by the child’s therapist led to a referral to the Department of Children’s Services due to prior incidents involving the child.
Another troubling case concerns Tybresha Sexton, who was charged after a Facebook live video showed her smoking while holding her one-month-old baby. Neighbors reported her to the police after noticing her erratic behavior. Officers arrived to find her intoxicated and made irrational statements regarding her infant. As a result, the one-month-old has been placed in the care of Sexton’s mother.
Brittany Alaine Tester was arrested after her 2-year-old child was found wandering alone in a neighborhood, eating sand on a porch. Police discovered Tester and another individual asleep in a filthy home upon locating the wandering child. Subsequently, the child is now in the custody of the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) due to concerns for their safety.
Context of Child Abuse Incidents in Chattanooga
These recent allegations have raised significant concerns regarding the safety of children in Chattanooga. Reports from the community illustrate a troubling trend where children are subject to harmful and dangerous situations due to the negligence or abuse of their caregivers. With schools and community members actively reporting suspected abuse, authorities are finding more cases that necessitate urgent intervention to protect vulnerable children.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance in identifying signs of child abuse. Schools play a critical role as they are often in a position to notice changes in children’s physical and emotional well-being. Community awareness and involvement also serve as pivotal factors in preventing and addressing cases of child maltreatment.
Conclusion
The Chattanooga community is rallying to enhance the safety and well-being of its children. Continuous education and awareness about child abuse and neglect are vital in fostering a supportive environment where children can thrive without fear. As investigations proceed, authorities are urging anyone with information regarding ongoing abuse to report it to the appropriate channels.
FAQ
What are the charges against Maria Alvarado?
Maria Alvarado faces charges of aggravated child abuse after allegedly harming her son.
What incident involved Misty Coleman?
Misty Coleman was involved in an incident where she accidentally ran over a child in a school parking lot.
What prompted the charges against Tybresha Sexton?
Tybresha Sexton was charged after being filmed smoking while holding her infant, leading to concerns about her behavior.
What happened to Brittany Alaine Tester?
Brittany Alaine Tester was arrested after her young child was found wandering alone in a neighborhood.
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Additional Resources
- NewsChannel 9: Chattanooga Mother Charged with Abuse
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- Local 3 News: Mom Runs Over Child
- Google Search: Child Abuse Tennessee
- CNY Central: Mother Charged with Child Abuse
- Google Scholar: Child Abuse Legal Issues
- WSBT: Toddler Found Alone, Mother Charged
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
