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Leeds Today
By the People, for the People
Alabama Woman Accused of Punishing Children with Bear Spray
Christie Lashay Williams charged with aggravated child abuse/torture after incident in Leeds, Alabama
Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:52am
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A 36-year-old Alabama woman named Christie Lashay Williams has been arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse/torture after allegedly using bear spray to punish her two young children. Police responded to a call about a small child running down the street crying for help, and the children were later transported to a hospital for treatment of their injuries.
Why it matters
The use of bear spray, a powerful irritant meant for wildlife, to punish children raises serious concerns about child abuse and the safety of vulnerable minors. This incident highlights the need for greater awareness and enforcement around appropriate disciplinary methods for parents and guardians.
The details
According to the Leeds Police Department, officers responded on March 8 to a call about a small child running down the street and crying for help. A 911 caller said the child's face was puffy and eyes were red. Police transported two elementary school-aged children to a hospital, where they said their mother had sprayed them 'with bug spray.' Detectives executed a search warrant at Williams' residence and recovered bear spray, which they said had been used. One child alleged that Williams sprayed them in both eyes and the mouth. Bear spray can cause severe burning, eye closure, tearing, runny nose, and respiratory distress in humans.
- On March 8, police responded to a call about a child running down the street crying for help.
- On April 2, detectives obtained a warrant for Williams' arrest.
The players
Christie Lashay Williams
A 36-year-old woman from Leeds, Alabama who was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse/torture for allegedly using bear spray to punish her two young children.
Leeds Police Department
The local law enforcement agency that responded to the initial call about a child running down the street, transported the children to the hospital, executed a search warrant, and obtained an arrest warrant for Williams.
What they’re saying
“'She was crying for help.'”
— Paul Irwin, Leeds Police Chief
“'I think it's terrible. I don't think you should be punishing your children with a spray that can be used on a bear. That's not to be used on humans.'”
— Paul Irwin, Leeds Police Chief
What’s next
The investigation into this incident is ongoing, according to Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin.
The takeaway
This disturbing case highlights the need for greater education, resources, and support for parents to ensure children's safety and well-being. Disciplinary methods that put minors at risk of serious harm raise urgent concerns about child abuse and the protection of vulnerable youth.
