LADSON, SC – A local woman is facing serious charges, including homicide by child abuse, after her 10-month-old daughter died of a fentanyl overdose, according to authorities.

Sara Constance Shakeri-Taylor, 39, has been charged with multiple offenses including one count of homicide by child abuse, three counts of conspiracy, three counts of animal fighting or baiting, and one count of ill treatment of animals. The charges were announced by the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to a call on May 15 regarding an unresponsive infant at a residence on Hardwood Street in Ladson, which is situated about 20 miles northwest of Charleston. Upon arrival, deputies found the child’s father, Sandy Gathers, 41, who had discovered the baby lifeless at the foot of a bed while Shakeri-Taylor was asleep, according to an affidavit from law enforcement.

First responders attempted life-saving measures, but the child was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. An initial autopsy revealed no obvious signs of injury, but toxicology reports indicated a substantial amount of fentanyl in the infant’s system.

Evidence collected from the scene, including baby bottles, formula, and other items, tested positive for fentanyl. Shakeri-Taylor admitted to past fentanyl use but declined to provide a blood sample on the day of her daughter’s death. Toxicologists noted that the amount of fentanyl found in the infant’s system was consistent with oral ingestion.

Charleston Sheriff Kristin Graziano expressed her shock at the negligence, stating that the mother’s actions were “terribly irresponsible,” and assured the public that law enforcement worked diligently to apprehend those responsible.

Initially held at the Dorchester County Detention Center, Shakeri-Taylor was transferred to the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in North Charleston, where she is being held without bond.

Further investigation led to additional charges against both Shakeri-Taylor and Gathers related to animal cruelty. Authorities discovered 15 dogs, mostly pit bull breeds, along with equipment typically associated with dog fighting, at the residence.

As a result, Gathers faces multiple charges including four counts of animal fighting or baiting, five counts of ill treatment of animals, nine counts of conspiracy, one count of hindering an officer, and 15 counts of being a violent felon in possession of a firearm. He has not been charged in connection with the child’s death.