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Ashland man accused of hurting toddler now jailed without bond

Posted at 7:54 PM, Sep 02, 2014
and last updated 2014-09-02 20:15:14-04

ASHLAND, Va. -- Ashland Police began an investigation into possible child abuse after receiving multiple tips from the public.

Now a 25-year-old is facing two felony charges, one for one abuse and one for neglect involving a three-year old boy.

Before the investigation, Ashland Police say they had few dealings with Joseph Jamal Lawson.

But then a few weeks ago "tips and complaints from members of the community that witnessed things that concerned them, brought it to our attention," says Ashland Police Officer Chip Watts.

The investigation included Child Protective Services and the Child Advocacy Center in Richmond.

Police learn Lawson lives in between hotels in Ashland, spending a few days at one before moving on to another.

On August 29, Lawson was arrested on two felony counts.

Tuesday Sept. 2, he was arraigned in Hanover County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Lawson is now being held without bond and his next court appearance is set for Sept. 30.