Oregon mother gets probation in home circumcision

PORTLAND — An Oregon woman who decided to circumcise her 3-month-old son at home after reading the Old Testament and watching YouTube videos has been sentenced to five years probation.

Keemonta Peterson, 30, pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal mistreatment. The Portland woman must also undergo mental health treatment.

Deputy District Attorney John Casalino says the child has fully recovered. Peterson called 911 and the boy was rushed to a hospital last October after her botched effort left her son bleeding uncontrollably and in intense pain.

The Oregonian reports that the boy and his three siblings are in the state’s care although Peterson can see them under supervision.

Multnomah County Circuit Judge Eric Bergstrom told Peterson on Monday that “the reality is you love your children and had absolutely no intent to harm your child.”