Florida woman accused of convincing 10-year-old child to try to kill baby over Roblox game

In Pensacola, Florida, 36-year-old Tara Alexis Sykes was charged with attempted murder and child abuse after she allegedly convinced a 10-year-old girl to harm the 2-month-old through Roblox.

According to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Sykes used the online game’s chat feature to give the child detailed instructions on how to harm the infant, including dropping the child on the kitchen floor, resulting in a fractured skull. The sheriff called it “one of the most disturbing cases” of his career.

Reports show Sykes also gave instructions to harm the girl’s caregivers, allegedly ordering her to cut their throats while they slept and burn the house down. A 10-year-old girl, fearing for her safety, initially tried to follow these instructions, but eventually refrained. Authorities were alerted when caregivers found evidence of aerosolized sheets, a lighter and screenshots of Sykes’ messages to the girl.

The arrest adds to Sykes’ legal troubles, as she and her husband, James Sykes, were previously charged with child neglect related to the pregnancy and malnutrition of their teenage daughter. Sykes’ arraignment is set for Nov. 8, and her husband will appear in court on Nov. 5 in connection with the negligence case. These allegations have caused significant public concern, highlighting the risks that children can face on online platforms.