A shocking case of child cruelty was heard in the Bahamas Supreme Court on Monday January 26, 1942. Diana Johnson pleaded guilty to putting the hands of Ronald Bell, a mere infant, in the fire. The boy had apparently stolen some syrup out of the cupboard. As punishment Johnson burned his hands. The poor child lost a finger.

Diana Johnson received an 8 months sentence for unlawful causing grievous harm. Johnson’s relationship to the infant is not known.

(The Nassau Guardian Monday January 26, 1942)