Mom Who Tattooed Her 11 Year Old Daughter NOT Charged With Child Abuse

A story recently hit the news about a mom who tattooed her 11 year old daughter.  She was arrested and charged with tattooing a minor.  Do you think she should be charged with child abuse?

As a mom, I hear my son ask for many things, often ridiculous things.  I know that it is my job to protect him from stupid and/or dangerous things.  I'll even admit that my son has asked me for a tattoo.  But just because a child wants something doesn't mean you give it to them.

A North Carolina mom, Odessa Clay, has been arrested for tattooing her 11 year old daughter.  It was an outline of a heart on the little girl's shoulder.  Her reasoning-her daughter asked her to do it.  I read that and immediately thought this woman was insane.

Here's the kicker, she is upset because she was arrested.  She admitted to doing it with her own equipment and she even said she numbed it.  She goes on to say that she had no idea that it was illegal to tattoo a minor.

This story is messed up on so many levels, but what really gets me is that she is not being charged with child abuse.  She has been charged with a lesser charge of tattooing a child under the age of 18.  This has a maximum penalty is 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

She has scarred her child for life.  Kids make stupid decisions.  That is why there is a law protecting them against getting tattoos until they are 18.

As a parent, I try to do what's best for my son.  I want to give him everything he wants, but I know the difference between giving him an extra dessert and giving him a tattoo.

Do you think she should be charged with child abuse?