PALM SPRINGS, FL – A Florida woman has been arrested for allegedly inflicting severe burn injuries on a young girl with a hot iron while telling the child she was no longer loved.
Celie Placius, 43, faces a charge of child abuse resulting in significant injury following an incident reported at a daycare center on April 24. Authorities responded after employees noticed a suspicious burn on the child’s lower right forearm.
When questioned by police, Placius initially denied any knowledge of the injury, speculating the girl might have been hurt during play. However, her account shifted several times, ultimately stating the child was nearby while she was ironing clothes and might have accidentally injured herself.
In contrast, the young girl’s narrative presented a troubling scenario. During an interview, she recounted an evening incident where Placius allegedly used the hot iron to burn her forearm twice, remarking, “I’m not your friend and I don’t love you anymore,” before applying cream to the wounds.
Investigators noted the injury appeared fresh and severe, with visible bubbling on the burnt area. A second mark on the child’s hand was also observed, though it appeared older and further healed.
Throughout the investigation, Placius provided inconsistent statements regarding the circumstances of the injury and her actions afterward. Despite being informed of her rights, she maintained that she was not responsible for the injuries.
According to the police affidavit, the nature and severity of the burns were inconsistent with an accidental or self-inflicted cause, leading authorities to believe the injuries were intentionally inflicted using a high degree of heat.
Placius was arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where she remains detained on a $5,000 bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for May 27, 2025, as the investigation continues to unfold.