EVANS, Ga. — A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged with cruelty to children in the first degree after allegedly striking a 9-year-old boy, causing visible injuries.

Ricky Krishan Lal was taken into custody on Tuesday, according to booking records from the Columbia County Jail. According to arrest warrants obtained from the Columbia County Magistrate Court, the incident took place on February 15 at a residence located on the 400 block of Dorcet Court.

The arrest warrants indicate that Lal struck the juvenile on the right eye with his palm. This action caused noticeable bruising around the child’s orbital bone and petechial hemorrhaging in the eye. The child’s injuries were documented by authorities during their investigation.

Lal has been charged with one count of cruelty to children in the first degree. Court records show that his bond has been set at $25,100.

The case continues to unfold, and further details are expected as the investigation progresses.