3 Kids Under the Age of 11 Had 'Smiley Faces' Burned Onto Their Skin with a Lighter: Reports

Photo: St. Petersburg Police Department

A 21-year-old Florida man faces three counts of aggravated child abuse with bodily harm after being accused of using a lighter to burn the flesh of three kids whom he was caring for, PEOPLE confirms.

The victims are 5, 8 and 10 years old, according to the station.

Citing the affidavit, news station WFTS reports that Mizeallegedly held the children downand singed them with three separate burn marks: two for the eyes, and below that — a “u” for the mouth.

PEOPLE was able to access online court records outlining the formal charges against Mize, who was initially detained Tuesday evening.

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The 5-year-old suffered burns to his right knee, according to WFTS, citing the affidavit.

The relationship between Mize and his alleged victims is unclear.

It is not known if he has retained a lawyer who could comment on his behalf. He is being held at the Pinellas County Jail in lieu of $450,000 bond.

source: people.com