Child abuse allegations leveled against Duncan man

DUNCAN — A felony charge was filed against a Duncan man accused of using excessive force on his 4-year-old son during a visitation.

The Stephens County District Court issued a felony charge of child abuse Thursday against Tracy Cox, 30, records indicate. The crime is punishable by up to life in prison and, due to the nature of the charge, 85 percent of a sentence would have to be served before eligible for parole consideration.

Duncan Police Detective Christian Archer began investigating the case Wednesday after the boy’s mother reported bruising on her son to a DHS case agent. Significant bruising was seen on the child following visitation with his father, the probable cause affidavit states. The boy had been taken to an urgent care center due to the bruising.

Archer noted the bruising was to the lower right and left back and appeared to be in the shape of a belt. There was also bruising to the buttocks that were similar to the shape of a fist, the affidavit states.

The mother told investigators Cox had been physically and mentally abusive during their relationship and showed photos of injuries she’d sustained by him, Archer stated. She said her ex had spanked the boy with his hands anywhere he could reach before and he would lock the boy in his room overnight, according to the affidavit.

Cox requested a lawyer and declined to speak with investigators without a lawyer, Archer stated.

An arrest warrant was issued for Cox on Thursday, records indicate.