Teen jailed for sodomizing child

A 16-year old East Brewton resident has been charged as an adult and faces a possible prison sentence of life without the possibility of parole after being arrested for sodomizing an 8-month old girl.

Allen Jack Cofield, 16, with an address listed as 729 Williamson St., East Brewton, was arrested and charged with sodomy I.

Cofield, shackled and dressed in a white and red jumpsuit, appeared before Escambia County District Judge Eric Coale Tuesday afternoon and was given a bond of $500,000 as requested by the district attorney's office.

East Brewton Police Chief Kenny Brazille said his department was first contacted in late November by Florida authorities about the possible abuse. He said he investigated the allegations, contacted the Escambia County Department of Human Resources and talked with the district attorney's office.

He also said although Cofield has been arrested the case is still under investigation.

During Monday's bond hearing, Assistant District Attorney Todd Stearns told the judge the child's mother noticed blood in her diaper and took her to a hospital in Florida. Stearns said the examination showed the 8-month girl suffered from multiple rectal tears.

When asked about the state's position on bond, Stearns told Judge Coale Cofield was being charged with with a Class A felony for sodomizing a child less than 6 years old and noted the victim was 8-months old. He also said sentencing guidelines call for a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. Due to that, he felt Cofield would be a flight risk.

Stearns recommended the $500,000 bond with stipulations that if Cofield gets out on bond he have no contact with the victim or any child under the age of 16. He also requested Cofield have no access to the internet or electronic devices, telling the judge that he understands pornography issues will come out. Stearns also requested that if Cofield is let out on bond he be placed under house arrest and be required to wear an ankle monitor.

In addressing the judge, Cofield said he no longer lives at the Williamson Street address, but was living at 'PawPaw's' house.

Prior to the judge making his ruling, a woman who identified herself as Cofield's birth mother asked to address the court.

"I'm his birth mother, can I say something?" the woman asked.

Judge Coale said she couldn't address issues about the case but she could discuss the bond.

"I never gave up my rights," the woman said. "He's only 16."

Judge Coale accepted the $500,000 bond and stipulations requested by Stearns.