One half of Natchez couple arrested for allegedly abusing child out on bond

Published 12:44 am Wednesday, December 13, 2017

NATCHEZ — One half of a Natchez couple arrested for allegedly abusing a four-year-old boy has been released on a $30,000 bond while the other remains in jail on a $150,000 bond.

Adams County Sheriff’s Office Maj. Jerry Brown said Tuesday that Derrick Dobbins, arrested for felony child abuse, is currently out of jail on the $30,000 bond, while Bria Ferguson, who received the same charge, remains in the county jail on the $150,000 bond.

Authorities said Ferguson is the mother of the alleged victim, while Dobbins was reported to be Ferguson’s boyfriend.

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Brown said the reason for the disparity in bonds stems from two judges handling separate arraignments for Dobbins and Ferguson.

Brown said Judge Patricia Dunmore set Dobbins’ bond and newly appointed Judge Eileen Mary Maher set Fergusons’.

The child, who reportedly suffered multiple bruises and scratches from the alleged abuse, is now in the custody of his biological father, Brown said.