MEDIA RELEASE

Lexington Police Department

Office of the Chief 106 North Main Street, Lexington, NC 27292
336-243-3302

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Captain Michael Hunt

Monday, October 30, 2017 336-243-6718

Felony-Child Abuse Investigation

On October 27, 2017 at 10:20 p.m. Lexington Police responded to 410 Irma Avenue in
reference to a welfare check of several children inside the home. Once at the home officers
observed very filthy and unhealthy living conditions. Officers made contact and started
assessing seven children inside the home ranging in ages from one year old to six years of
age. Davidson County EMS and Davison County Social Service were called for assistance. Once
at the scene EMS transported two eighteen month old twins and a one year old to Lexington
Medical Center for treatment. The two twins and one year old were later transported to
Brenners Children Hospital in Winston Salem, NC for treatment. They are currently listed in
fair condition. The one year old has been released from Brenners and is being placed by
Davidson County Social Services.

Living conditions at the home range from human and animal feces and urine scattered
around the home to a very dirty and unhealthy environment for any human life. Maggots
were found in the genital and anus area of one of the children by the medical staff at
Lexington Medical Center.

Jamie Leigh Hiatt, white female, age 25 was arrested and charged with felony neglect-child
abuse involving serious injury and 6 counts of misdemeanor child abuse. Held under a
$100,000 secured bond.

Michael Patrick McKnight, white male, age 24 was arrested and charged with felony neglect-
child abuse involving serious injury and 6 counts of misdemeanor child abuse. Held under a
$100,000 secured bond.

Detectives have been working with Davidson County Social Services and Davidson County
District Attorneys Office about possible additional charges on Hiatt and McKnight.