What to Know
- Deputies say Sousa admitted to delivering the baby before placing her in a bag and throwing it in the dumpster of the Boca Raton complex.
Deputies in Palm Beach County have arrested the mother of a newborn baby who was found crying inside of an apartment complex dumpster earlier this week.
Officials announced the arrest of 35-year-old Rafaelle Sousa, who was taken into custody late Thursday night as a “person of interest” in the case. Sousa is being charged with attempted felony murder as well as aggravated child abuse in the case and is being held without bond.
Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office officials tweeted out a message Friday morning saying that Sousa admitted to delivering the baby before placing her in a bag and throwing it in the dumpster of the Boca Raton complex.
PBSO on Thursday said the newborn weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces and was likely born on Tuesday or Wednesday and her umbilical cord was still attached. A lieutenant with the sheriff's office said the baby is "cute as a button."
Authorities said the baby was found by two people who were walking near an apartment complex along Boca Entrada Boulevard around 9 a.m. Tuesday when they heard what sounded like a baby crying. The girl was taken to a local hospital to get checked out.
Investigators haven't said what led them to Sousa.
Local
Under Florida law, newborns can be dropped off anonymously at a hospital or fire station with no questions asked.
Jail records don't list a lawyer for Sousa. Detectives are still seeking information on the case and are asking anyone with info to call Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County at 1-800-458-TIPS.
