An active-duty Army sergeant, Paul Thames, has been identified as the suspect in a disturbing incident captured on a Ring doorbell camera, showing the brutal beating of a 3-year-old boy. Thames, who serves with the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas, was charged with third-degree felony injury to a child, leaving his superiors “disgusted” by his actions.
The Army spokesperson expressed the division’s shock at Thames’ arrest, stating that his behavior does not align with the values of the 1st Cavalry Division or the U.S. Army. The 29-year-old sergeant turned himself in and was booked into the McLennan County jail following the incident at an apartment building in Waco.
In the disturbing video footage, the man believed to be Thames is seen repeatedly striking the young boy in the torso with a clenched fist. Despite the child’s cries, the attacker picks him up by the face and walks away, asking if he will stop playing.
Law enforcement responded to the scene after receiving a call from the apartment complex, and the child was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Fortunately, he was later released after being examined by medical personnel.
Thames’ bond was set at $200,000 for the charge of injury to a child, but he remains in custody due to a federal detainer. The shocking incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from both military officials and the public, highlighting the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from such acts of violence.
