11-month-old baby dies after being found inside insect-infested apartment; mother arrested

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC/Gray News) — North Charleston authorities said that an infant has died after being found inside an apartment that was filled with insects.

According to the North Charleston Police Department, the child’s mother, Janette Clayton, 27, was arrested and charged with three counts of unlawful conduct toward a child.

North Charleston police said when officers arrived at the apartment, firefighters were performing life-saving measures on the 11-month-old, who was found partially wrapped in a blanket near the front door.

But the child was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities said Clayton was outside with the baby’s paternal grandmother and two other children when officers arrived at the apartment.

The police department noted that officers conducted a protective sweep of the apartment, which revealed a lack of items necessary for child care, including no food or supplies for the infant.

Authorities also said they found the apartment to have a severe insect infestation that included insects being found inside the refrigerator and drawers.

Clayton was taken to the Al Cannon Detention Center.

North Charleston police said the case remains an open investigation.