Father Indicted For Carving Pentagram On 6-Year Old

A father has been indicted for carving a pentagram on his six-year-old son. The Texas man carved the symbol into his son’s back on 12-12-12, as he thought the day was “holy.”

Brent Troy Bartel, age 39, contacted 911 after carving a pentagram onto his son’s back and wiping the blood around his front door frame. In the 911 call Bartel admitted that he “inscribed a pentagram” on his son with a sharp object. When asked why he stated “cause it’s a holy day.”

As reported by CNN, when authorities arrived they found the six-year-old “cold and shivering” with a large pentagram carved on his back. The shirtless boy was covered in blood, which was also visible on the front door. Police believe the father used a box cutter, found at the scene, to carve the pentagram on his 6-year-old son.

Bartel was arrested and has been held on $500,000 bond. A Texas grand jury heard the case and indicted the father of felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. If convicted Bartel could serve up to 20 years in prison. Another hearing is scheduled tomorrow, as reported by the Associated Press.

The father never explained which “holy day” he was honoring with his son’s blood. The pentagram, while commonly used as a Wiccan symbol, can be traced back to 3500BC. As discussed by Wikipedia, the five-point star has been used by numerous religious and organizations throughout history. Bartel never discussed his faith or what specifically led him to carve a pentagram on his six-year-old son.

Bartel is currently incarcerated and being held on the $500,000 bond. His son has recovered and is in the care of his mother.