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MUSCLE SHOALS-On the evening of March 10th, 2025 MSPD received a report concerning alleged abuse of a two-year-old child.
Investigations into the allegations began immediately. Video footage and other pertinent evidence was collected
Ridge Malone Watkins
which substantiated the allegations and established sufficient probable cause for Detectives to obtain an arrest warrant against Ridge Malone Watkins (35) of Muscle Shoals.
According to court documents, 35-year-old Ridge Malone Watkins is accused of striking the 2-yeqr-old child three times in the back, causing marks on the back, legs, and buttocks. Officials say the series of violent incidents all occurred on January 28.
MSPD Officers quickly took Watkins into custody at his place of residence without incident. Watkins has since been transferred to the Colbert County Jail where he currently remains without bond pending the results of an Aniah’s Law hearing.
As of today’s date, Watkins stands charged with one count of Aggravated Abuse of a Child Under 6 Years of Age. This is an ongoing investigation.
ALL SUSPECTS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW.
Media Release/Muscle Shoals Police Department
