Friday, January 30, 2015

Custodial dad, step plead guilty to 2nd-degree murder in stavation-torture death of 11-year-old son (Hernando, Mississippi)

The custodial dad is identified as JACK THOMAS RAINES.

According to our previous accounts, the protective mother and other family members were barred from seeing the child, who was "homeschooled." When the mother went to the police, they told her it was a "civil matter."

http://www.wapt.com/news/father-and-his-wife-plead-guilty-to-child-murder/30993988

Father and his wife plead guilty to child murder

Couple accused of killing the man's 11 year-old son

Published 5:23 PM CST Jan 29, 2015

HERNANDO, Miss. —A Horn Lake father and his wife plead guilty in the death of the man's 11-year-old son.

Jack Thomas Raines and Amanda Leigh Raines, who was the boy's stepmother, each pleaded guilty Thursday to second-degree murder.

District Attorney John Champion said the case had been set to go to trial, but the couple decided to enter the guilty pleas in DeSoto County Circuit Court. He said a jury will decide the sentence. A date for sentencing has not been set.

The couple was charged in the death of Justin Tyler Raines, who authorities said weighed 56 pounds when he was found dead by police in the bathroom of the family's rental home on Feb. 6, 2014.

Both remain in the DeSoto County Jail.

Dad charged with 1st-degree murder in death of 3-month-old son (Lebanon, Tennessee)

Dad is identified as JOHN THOMAS CORMIER JR.

http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/wilson/2015/01/29/lower-bail-denied-lebanon-dad-charged-babys-death/22550543/

Lower bail denied for Lebanon dad charged in baby’s death

Andy Humbles, 5:18 p.m. CST January 29, 2015

A 21-year-old Lebanon father accused of killing his 3-month-old son in August had a request for a lower bail amount denied Thursday at a scheduling court hearing in Wilson County.

John Thomas Cormier Jr., who has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse, has been in jail with a bail set at $250,000.

Cormier’s infant son was found unresponsive on Summerfield Drive in Lebanon by officers Aug. 18, according to police. The infant was taken to University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

An investigation followed based on the condition in which the infant was discovered. Evidence, which included findings from the state medical examiner, was submitted to the Wilson County Grand Jury and Cormier was indicted in November and booked into the Wilson County Jail.

Dad found guilty of 2nd-degree murder in death of 21-day-old daughter (Sacramento, California)

Dad is identified as ALIAS JAMES MCLAUGHLIN.

http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article8570900.html

Sacramento jury convicts father of second-degree murder in baby’s death

By Andy Furillo 01/29/2015 11:08 AM | Updated: 01/29/2015 10:23 PM

Alias James McLaughlin was convicted on Jan. 29, 2015, of second-degree murder in the May 10, 2013, killing of his 21-day-old baby.

According to its foreman, the real-life experiences of the members of a Sacramento Superior Court jury played a big role in the panel’s relatively quick verdict Thursday that found Alias James McLaughlin guilty of second-degree murder in the death of his 21-day-old baby girl.

“There were a few people in there who have young children, and a few others with grandchildren, and it was beyond their comprehension that someone could handle a baby so roughly,” jury foreman Alexander Hamilton said in an interview after the verdict came back.

The panel needed barely three hours of deliberation in finding McLaughlin, 22, responsible for the May 10, 2013, blunt-force-trauma killing of his infant daughter, Ada Ann Marie Lam-McLaughlin, when she wouldn’t stop crying after waking up just before dawn.

Jurors also found McLaughlin guilty of felony child abuse resulting in great bodily injury or death. The second count carries a maximum term of 25-years-to-life – more time, even, than the 15-to-life that comes with second-degree murder.

McLaughlin admitted in an interview with police five days after the killing that he had “angrily” set down his baby when he and his girlfriend could not pacify Ada on the day of her death.

The girlfriend, Dalena Lam, testified that McLaughlin also shoved a pacifier into the baby’s mouth, tried to force-feed her milk with a baby bottle and held her by the ankles and shook her. McLaughlin also shoved Lam aside severely enough during the incident to bruise her arm and chest.

At one point, McLaughlin also exclaimed to the baby, “I hope you die,” according to Lam’s testimony.

“Baby Ada was one of the most vulnerable victims I have seen, and the brutality of her death is inexcusable,” Deputy District Attorney Sheri Greco said in an email after the verdict. “I appreciate the jury for evaluating the evidence and reaching a verdict that holds the defendant accountable for his conscious disregard for human life.”

Defense attorney Robert Saria argued for voluntary manslaughter but did not fault the jury for its finding.

“The facts were strong,” Saria said outside the courtroom. “Having talked to a juror, I do believe they considered the evidence and considered the arguments. That’s all you can ask a jury to do.”

Hamilton, the jury foreman, said the panel wavered a little between manslaughter and murder before reaching its verdict after it determined “what was reasonable behavior for a normal person.”

McLaughlin did not testify during the trial, but the jury got a good look at him in his videotaped interview with Sacramento police Det. Mark Johnson five days after the killing. In the interview, which was played in court, McLaughlin admitted he set the baby down on the living room floor of their Little Pocket apartment with an inordinate level of force and that he heard a “clink” when the infant’s head hit the ground.

The videotape also showed McLaughlin, when the detective left the interview room, cradling a baby mannequin and saying “Daddy is so sorry” and “I didn’t mean it.”

“I felt that he had hurt his cause by simply saying he heard the thud and he knew what he had done,” Hamilton said.

The foreman said the jury also was moved by the testimony of forensic pathologist Dr. Gregory Reiber, particularly his demonstration of the force he believed it would have taken to inflict the head injuries that proved fatal to baby Ada.

Reiber, in his demonstration, took a baby doll and smashed it head-first on the rail of the witness stand.

“When he demonstrated how hard that baby hit the witness stand, he was pretty angry when he put that baby down,” Hamilton said of Reiber.

Cynthia Peterson, the baby’s great-grandmother and grandmother of Dalena Lam, wept silently at times during the trial. She said Thursday she felt “very blessed” by the verdict “and that justice has been served and that he is guilty.”

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Dad kept six children locked up in home for YEARS (Thokoza, South Africa)

UNNAMED DAD, and no mention of a mother in the home.

http://ewn.co.za/2015/01/29/Thokoza-father-arrested-for-abuse-held-kids-captive-at-home

Thokoza father arrested for abuse, holding kids captive

It’s understood the six children, aged between 2 and 21, were locked up for years.

Eyewitness News | about 15 hours ago

JOHANNESBURG – Gauteng police have arrested a man in Thokoza for allegedly abusing six children in his home.

The Daily Sun is reporting the children were locked up for years by the man, who is believed to be their father.

The paper says he kept the eldest child locked up in the house for over 21 years and often tied him up before leaving the building.

The children, aged between two and 21, apparently never went to school and one daughter, aged 15, says she was repeatedly raped.

But police could not confirm this.

Police spokesman Captain Mega Ndobe says that officers were called to the house to investigate claims of assault this week when they found the children.

Ndobe tells Eyewitness News that a 53-year-old man was arrested for assault and intent to cause grievous bodily harm and a case of abuse will be added.

He says the children were taken to hospital and are now being cared for at a place of safety.

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

"Frustrated" dad abuses 10-month-old baby for crying (Arlington, Iowa)

Same old story. Mom is responsible, going to school. Dad is a short-tempered little sh** who is nevertheless drafted into doing infant care, which he is completely incapable of doing. And once again, the POS couldn't even bother to get medial care after he goes off on the baby for crying. Nope, Mom had to deal with the injuries when she finally got home.

Dad is identified as CODY M. RUSSELL.

http://www.hngnews.com/lodi_enterprise/news/local/article_ba2f6e1e-a710-11e4-8e5e-5ff3c5461fdb.html

Man charged with child abuse

Police investigate injuries to 10-month-old

Posted: Wednesday, January 28, 2015 11:11 am

Rachelle Blair Managing Editor
Posted on January 28, 2015

by Rachelle Blair

An Arlington man faces a felony child abuse charge after losing his temper with his 10-month old child.

Cody M. Russell, 21, Arlington, is out on a $5,000 signature bond after a Tuesday, Jan. 20 initial hearing in Columbia County Circuit Court. Russell faces more than 12 years in jail and up to $25,000 in fines for the felony child abuse charge.

On Thursday, Jan. 15, Columbia County Sheriff’s office reported to a Sun Prairie medical clinic to investigate suspicious bruises and injuries on a 10-month-old baby.

According to the criminal complaint, the child was left in the care of its father, Russell, while its mother was at school. When Russell picked the mother up from school he told her the child had cut its face by falling off the bed. After looking the child over, the mother discovered purple marks on the child’s neck and a laceration on it’s cheek, and decided to seek medical attention at the Sun Prairie clinic.

In the complaint, when confronted by detectives that his story didn’t match up with the injuries, Russell said “I just got really (expletive) mad, I picked [it] up by [its] neck and put [it] in [its] bed.”

According to law enforcement, Russell, angered after the baby wouldn’t stop crying, picked the baby up by placing his right hand around the child’s neck and held the child in the air, above the bed for a “good 10 seconds”.

In the complaint, Russell admitted he was “pretty frustrated” when he picked the child up. “Maybe I put [it] in [its] crib a little harder than I thought, but I don’t think [it] hit [its] head on anything.”

Russell is currently released on a signature bond with conditions not to contact the child, the mother or juveniles under the age

Dad assaults Mom during child custody exchange (United Kingdom)

Mothers and children should not be at risk of assault just so a violent father with a drug problem can have his "rights."

Dad is identified as SIMON WRIGHT.

http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/Father-assaulted-ex-held-young-child/story-25935332-detail/story.html

Newcastle dad assaulted ex while she held toddler

By The Sentinel | Posted: January 28, 2015

A FATHER assaulted the mother of his child as she went to take the youngster from his home.

Simon Wright shoved and grabbed at Stevi-Ann Robinson after she told him he was not having their child overnight.

The 25-year-old pushed her on a sofa as she held the toddler and tried to pull the infant from her arms.

He then snatched her keys and phone before twisting her free arm behind her back.

The defendant then forcibly kissed Miss Robinson on the lips leaving her feeling unnerved.

Now Wright has been handed a community order by North Staffordshire magistrates.

Prosecutor Steve Knowles said the defendant and Miss Robinson were in a relationship for two years but separated in August.

She visited his home on November 3 to drop off their child so he could have contact.

Mr Knowles said: “She arrived at 5.30pm. Everything seemed fine. However she heard him having a conversation which centred on drugs.

"She challenged him about that and said she was not happy to leave her child in that situation. She started to get the child ready to leave and told him he was not having the child overnight.

“She was sat on the sofa with her child in her arms. As she stood up he pushed her back on the sofa. He tried to get the child out of her arms. The child started to scream. He let go. She stood and went to leave but he stood in the doorway and said she was not leaving. She took out her phone to call the police and he snatched her phone and keys from her. She felt frightened and trapped.”

Miss Robinson tried to walk past with the child but Wright grabbed her free arm and twisted it behind her back, pulling her towards him.

Mr Knowles said: “He shouted in her face that he was not going to let her leave. She was very tearful. He forcibly kissed her on the lips. She did not have time to move. She kicked him in the shin and asked him what he was doing. He said, ‘You love it really’. This unnerved her and made her skin crawl.”

The defendant’s mother arrived and Miss Robinson was able to leave after Wright produced her phone from his underwear.

Miss Robinson was left with a sore arm, which she described as a dull ache.

Wright, of Cooper Street, Newcastle, denied assault but was convicted after a trial earlier this month.

Simon Dykes, mitigating, said the defendant has recognised he did not behave appropriately.

Mr Dykes said: “He dealt with the situation very immaturely. He would benefit from engaging with the probation service.”

Magistrates sentenced Wright to a 12-month community order with supervision and nine sessions of structured intervention to address domestic abuse.

He was fined £50 and must also pay £620 costs and a £60 surcharge.

Magistrates did not make a restraining order as a non-molestation order is already in place.

Dad with crimnal history of assault arrested for breaking leg of 9-month-old son (Lancaster, Ohio)

Very typical scenario. Dad with history of violent criminal behavior is typically unemployed/unemployable. In desperation, Mom drafts him to do infant care while she is at work. The predictable happens when father with no nurturing skills or empathy has responsibility for a baby: More violence...despite the denials. It's not rocket science, people.

And notice the typical "clueless daddy" move. Feigned ignorance about why the baby was crying and didn't do anything about getting medical help. Just complained to Mom about it and let her deal with it when she got home. Happens again and again.

Dad is identified as NICHOLAS A. SHAW SR.

http://www.lancastereaglegazette.com/story/news/local/2015/01/28/infant-abuse-allegations/22482555/

Father accused of breaking infant son's femur

Spencer Roush, 8:48 p.m. EST January 28, 2015

LANCASTER – Accused of assaulting his 9-month-old son, a Lancaster man is facing multiple felony charges after an incident sent the infant to the hospital in November.

The infant's father, Nicholas A. Shaw Sr., 25, was arrested after Nationwide Children's Hospital sent a referral to the Lancaster Police Department requesting an investigation. The infant's mother brought the young boy to the Columbus hospital after she returned from work and saw the baby favoring one leg, according to the police report. The boy had a broken femur, the report said.

The mother told hospital officials she was at work in Lancaster when she received a call from her husband, saying their baby, Nicholas A. Shaw Jr., was crying for an unknown reason. She took the boy to the hospital hours later and told hospital officials she suspected Shaw had harmed their baby while she was gone, the report said.

On Wednesday, Shaw's wife, Helen Shaw, said she never made abuse accusations about her husband to hospital staff to prompt the referral to police.

"My son's leg might have gotten caught in the baby bed and he tried to get it out," she said, but was adamant that hurting their child would have been "completely out of character."

"He even hollers for his daddy," she said.

The infant was wearing a cast from the injury, but has since had it removed, she said.

Lancaster police investigated the claims and prosecutors took the case to a grand jury, which indicted him on multiple charges, including felonious assault and endangering children, both second-degree felonies, on Dec. 19. He also was indicted on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge.

Nicholas Shaw Sr. was arrested by Fairfield County Sheriff's Office deputies three days later.

According to court records, he has one previous misdemeanor assault conviction involving an incident May 23. He pleaded guilty to a reduced misdemeanor charge in September in Fairfield County Municipal Court and was sentenced to 180 days in jail with 177 suspended. He was ordered to have only peaceful contact with the victim and two years of probation, in addition to a mental health/anger management assessment.

Nicholas Shaw Sr. is being held at the Fairfield County Jail on a $50,000 cash/surety bond for the November assault case. He is awaiting trial, which is scheduled for Feb. 17.

Dad indicted for murder in death of 8-month-old son (Pamlico County, North Carolina)

Dad is identified as SAMUEL POTTER. No mention of the mother.

http://www.wcti12.com/news/update-father-indicted-in-death-of-8monthold-son/30973656

UPDATE: Father indicted in death of 8-month-old son

Amber Roberts
POSTED: 6:47 PM Jan 28 2015 UPDATED: 6:52 PM Jan 28 2015

BAYBORO, PAMLICO COUNTY - We spoke with the District Attorney about charges a Pamlico County father is facing. Samuel Potter, 24, is charged in the death of his child on December 29, 2013.

District Attorney Scott Thomas and Pamlico County Sheriff Chris Davis said a they have handed out an indictment for the murder of the 8-month-old infant. The indictments come 13 months after the child's death. Investigators say they had to wait for autopsy and toxicology reports to come back, and then follow up with interviews.

Potter is charged with one count of murder and one count of felony child abuse. #Investigators said the child was willfully overdosed with diphenhydramine. Medical experts say that is a generic form of Benadryl. Thomas says the medication the father gave the child is meant for children ages 4 and older.

Officials said Potter is facing separate charges including assaulting a bail bondsman with a machete. He was charged with attempted murder. That case is pending.

Custodial dad with history of assault, domestic violence arrested for near fatal abuse, neglect of 2-year-old daughter (Blawnox, Pennsylvania)

Dad PHILLIP CLARK obviously had custody. The tell-tale signs: Mention of a girlfriend, but not the mother. Later clarification that the girlfriend is not the mother. Mention that the child lived with the girlfriend who lived with the father. And, if you needed any more proof, evidence that the child had suffered from a long untreated ear infection that could have been fatal. Obviously the mother was shut out of the picture.

We also see that Daddy has a criminal history including ASSAULT and a protection order from abuse filed against him in a "previous relationship" (perhaps the child's mother)?

The fact that the charges in the past were withdrawn or dismissed is typical. Victims are afraid of repercussions from the abuser who is not kept in jail and is not treated as a serious offender by law enforcement. So the victims drop the matter for their own protection.

So who the hell thought it was a good idea to give this father custody, especially given that his gal pal also has a criminal history?

Proof once again that violent fathers, even those with criminal records, have no trouble getting child custody. Are we surprised when they are violent towards the children? (Notice that the step is blamed, which is typical. As if Daddy were helpless in the situation like a battered woman with no money or resources. We see the "clueless" father line of crap all the time.).

Dad is identified as PHILLIP CLARK.

http://www.wtae.com/news/couple-arrested-after-girl-found-bruised-suffering-from-near-fatal-ear-infection/30953662

Blawnox couple arrested after girl found bruised, suffering from near-fatal infection

Alyce Aronckes charged with aggravated assault; Phillip Clark charged with child endangerment UPDATED 6:48 PM EST Jan 28, 2015

BLAWNOX, Pa. —A father and his girlfriend are facing child endangerment charges after the man's 2-year-old daughter showed up at the hospital covered in bruises and suffering from an ear infection that went untreated for so long that doctors said it could have been fatal.

Police say Clark's daughter was brought to UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh on Jan. 21 with mucus coming out of her nose and mouth and was unsteady on her feet. According to a criminal complaint, doctors found the girl had cuts and bruises on her head, face, and stomach. She also had a serious infection of the mastoid bone, which was attributed to an ear infection that was not treated and the "case represents a near fatality."

Aronckes is not the girl's mother, but she lived with the girl, Clark and three other children at a home in Blawnox.

Investigators wrote in the complaint that Aronckes described the girl as a "horrible child to deal with" and admitted physically restraining her often, saying "she has had to push (the girl's) eyes open and smacked her lightly in the face to get her to focus.”

Court records show that both Clark and Aronckes have been charged with crimes in the past. Clark was charged with simple assault, harassment, furnishing alcohol to minors and corruption of minors. He has also had a protection from abuse order filed against him, in a previous relationship. The PFA and most of the charges against Clark were either withdrawn or dismissed. Aronckes was previous charged with assault, but that charge was also withdrawn.

Clark and Aronckes were being held in the county jail on $100,000 bond. Both face child endangerment charges, while Aronckes is also charged with two counts of aggravated assault.

Within two months of gaining full custody, dad charged with 2nd-degree murder in death of 2-year-old son

Sounds like the model sociopathic father. No doubt comes across as very engaging with his public face, but with a violent temper that doesn't deal well with toddlers. Yet of course he has lots of friends in total denial. This type always does...

Dad is identified as MARIO WINT.

http://www.680news.com/2015/01/28/friends-gather-in-newmarket-court-to-support-father-charged-with-murder/

Friends gather in Newmarket court to support father charged with murder

Tammie Sutherland and Toronto staff

Jan 28, 2015 04:45:58 PM

Friends of Mario Wint filled a Newmarket courtroom on Wednesday to show their support for the man charged in the death of his two-year-old son.

The little boy was found without vital signs when emergency crews arrived at Wint’s home on Longford Drive, near Yonge Street and Davis Drive, last Thursday. The child was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Two days later, Wint, 29, was charged with second-degree murder.

Friends, still in disbelief about the arrest, rallied around Wint, saying he was a loving father who just gained full custody of his two sons from children’s aid last month.

“I don’t believe he did this for a second,” Pat Woods, a long time friend of Wint, told media outside the courthouse. “He was very caring. His kids had everything they needed and more.”

Gasps were heard when Wint was brought into the courtroom, with one woman wiping away tears as he walked to the prisoner’s box.

Family members, including the child’s mother, did not appear in court.

Police have not released the little boy’s cause of death.

“My client is holding up well,” lawyer Steven Skurka said. “He’s in a very solemn and serious mood. He understands the gravity of the charge he’s facing.”

Wint will be back in court on Feb. 18.

Dad charged with "child neglect" in beating death of 4-month-old daughter (Orange County, California)

Dad is identified as HERIBERTO MONTES RAMOS.

http://www.mynews13.com/content/news/cfnews13/news/article.html/content/news/articles/cfn/2015/1/27/orange_county_dad_18.html

18-year-old Orange County dad charged in baby's death

Heriberto Montes Ramos, 18, is charged with child neglect in the death of his 4-month-old daughter Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015.

By John W. Davis, Reporter Last Updated: Wednesday, January 28, 2015, 9:17 AM

ORANGE COUNTY -- A 4-month-old infant is dead and her father is behind bars at the Orange County jail, facing charges related to her death. #Heriberto Montes Ramos, 18, was arrested Sunday for child neglect.

Investigators with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office said the incident took place on Monarch Drive off Conway Road near State Road 528.

According to the arrest report, the infant suffered a fractured skull, brain swelling and bruises above her eye.

Montes Ramos was also charged with aggravated child abuse after his daughter, Mia Valentina Montes Balleste, died Tuesday at Arnold Palmer Children’s Hospital. #Hospital staff also reported the infant had two partially healed ribs.

In the arrest report, deputies said they met with the child’s mother, who said when she came home on Saturday, her daughter was not breathing. The child’s father was at home watching their daughter.

Montes Ramos told detectives he put the baby in a bouncy chair and sat the chair on a short table. When he turned around from picking up some toys nearby, the baby was on the floor unresponsive, because Montes Ramos said another child knocked the bouncy chair over.

Montes Ramos is being held at the Orange County Jail without bond. Homicide detectives have taken over the death investigation case.

Dad gets 9 years for beating death of 4-month-old son (Miami, Florida)

Dad is identified as YOSI MAHLAB.

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/crime/article8447802.html

Nine years in prison for North Miami father in baby beating death

By David Ovalle - MiamiHerald.com
01/28/2015 10:59 AM Updated: 01/28/2015 1:19 PM

A North Miami man will serve nine years in prison after pleading guilty Wednesday to the beating death of his 4-month-old son.

Yosi Mahlab, 33, pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the 2012 death of his son, Javon, who suffered a head injury and bleeding in the brain.

Mahlab had been trying to feed the baby at his apartment in the 600 block of Northeast 123rd Street. He confessed to slapping the child twice, causing the boy to hit his head on a nightstand.

The child died after spending three weeks in a coma.

Mahlab originally had been charged with second-degree murder. He also pleaded guilty to child neglect and aggravated child abuse.

Dad sentenced for assaulting and strangling 3-month-old daughter (Bay City, Michigan)

Dad is identified as GARRETT D. GWIZDALA.

http://www.mlive.com/news/bay-city/index.ssf/2015/01/bay_city_dad_gets_15-30_years.html

Bay City dad gets 15-30 years for abusing infant daughter

By Cole Waterman on January 28, 2015 at 10:03 AM, updated January 28, 2015 at 10:05 AM

BAY CITY, MI — A 25-year-old Bay City father who abused his infant daughter is heading to prison for up to the next three decades.

Bay County Circuit Judge Harry P. Gill on Monday, Jan. 26, sentenced Garrett D. Gwizdala to concurrent prison terms of 10 to 15 years and 15 to 30 years' imprisonment. The judge gave him credit for 214 days already served.

Gwizdala in November pleaded no contest to single counts of first-degree child abuse and assault by strangulation. The former is a life offense, while the latter is a 10-year felony.

In exchange for his pleas, the prosecution dismissed one count of second-degree child abuse.

Gwizdala's charges stem from an incident that occurred at his residence in the 3400 block of North Euclid Avenue the afternoon of Wednesday, June 25. According to police, Gwizdala called 911 at 5:32 p.m., requesting medical attention for his 3-month-old daughter, who was not breathing.

A Bay County Sheriff's deputy also responded to the house. Gwizdala initially said he was lying on a couch with the baby on his chest, and that the child fell off and landed face-down on the floor, Undersheriff Troy Cunningham previously said.

"He later made admissions to what really happened, and we learned his original story was completely false," Cunningham said, adding the child's mother was not home at the time of the alleged incident.

Cunningham said Gwizdala told detectives he knowingly hurt the child. Gwizdala told detectives he obstructed the child's breathing and was upset because she wouldn't stop crying, Cunningham said.

The baby was taken via ambulance to McLaren Bay Region hospital and later transferred to Covenant HealthCare in Saginaw for further treatment. Cunningham said the baby also had injuries that indicated prior abuse.

Custodial dad who raped, tortured, and murdered 5-year-old daughter set free (Saudi Arabia)

This is what institutionalized fathers rights look like, folks. Murdered women and children make up a "special category" of murder victims for which legal justice does not apply. And a mere female is worth less in "blood money" as well.

Vestiges of this still exist in the "secularized" west, where there is still an institutionalized indifference to domestic violence and child abuse victims. There are all kinds of dads that are documented at this site that got minimal punishment for killing their children--or no punishment at all.

Dad is identified as FAYHAN AL-GHAMDI.

http://m.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/saudi-preacher-who-raped-daughter-5-death-freed/2525379/

Saudi preacher who 'raped daughter, 5, to death', freed

John Hall (28th January 2015 6:51 AM)

A ‘celebrity’ Saudi preacher accused of raping, torturing and killing his five-year-old daughter has reportedly been released from custody. Fayhan al-Ghamdi had been accused of killing his daughter Lama.

A 'celebrity' Saudi preacher accused of raping, torturing and killing his five-year-old daughter has reportedly been released from custody after agreeing to pay 'blood money'.

Fayhan al-Ghamdi had been accused of killing his daughter Lama, who suffered multiple injuries including a crushed skull, broken back, broken ribs, a broken left arm and extensive bruising and burns. Social workers say she had also been repeatedly raped and burnt.

Fayhan al-Ghamdi admitted using a cane and cables to inflict the injuries after doubting his five-year-old daughter's virginity and taking her to a doctor, according to the campaign group Women to Drive.

Rather than getting the death penalty or receiving a long prison sentence for the crime, Fayhan al-Ghamdi served only a few months in jail before a judge ruled the prosecution could only seek 'blood money'.

Albawaba News reported the judge as saying: "Blood money and the time the defendant had served in prison since Lama's death suffices as punishment."

Fayhan al-Ghamdi, who regularly appears on television in Saudi Arabia, is said to have agreed to pay £31,000 to Lama's mother.

The money is considered compensation under Islamic law, although it is only half the amount that would have been paid had Lama been a boy.

Despite Saudi Arabia's famously strict legal system, Women to Drive say fathers cannot be executed for murdering their children in the country. Equally, husbands cannot be executed for murdering their wives.

Formal objections to the ruling have been raised by three Saudi activists, and the twitter hashtag #AnaLama (which translates as I Am Lama) has been set up.

Local reports say public anger over the settlement is growing across Saudi Arabia, with authorities planning to set up a 24-hour hotline to take calls about child abuse.

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Dad charged with torture, sexual assault, and murder of 19-day-old daughter (Newhall, California)

We've posted on dad MATTHEW BRENDAN WARNER before. Now we find out that this piece of sh** also tortured and raped this baby--still a newborn--while Mom was at work.

What a sicko. And what a damned shame that our society forces the mothers of babies now even three weeks old to return to the workforce and earn a paycheck. You're not even recovered from labor yet, and you are forced to hand over "caretaking" to a violent man because there is no paid maternity leave and the deadbeat sure doesn't seem obliged to help support the family.

http://ktla.com/2015/01/27/newhall-man-charged-with-murder-sexual-assault-of-infant-daughter-da/

Newhall Man Charged With Murder, Sexual Assault of Infant Daughter: DA

Posted 12:54 PM, January 27, 2015, by Melissa Pamer, Updated at 01:36pm, January 27, 2015

A 30-year-old Newhall man who was arrested on suspicion of killing his 19-day-old infant daughter also allegedly sexually assaulted her, prosecutors said in announcing charges against him Tuesday.

Matthew Brendan Warner was taken into custody less than 12 hours after his daughter, Ellorah Rose Warner, was reported missing from the couple’s home on Friday evening.

After a large-scale search operation, the baby’s father led investigators to her body, which was found in the front cab of a truck on Saturday morning.

Warner was charged with murder, assault on a child causing death, torture, oral copulation or sexual penetration with a child 10 years or younger, and aggravated sexual assault of a child, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

The alleged sexual assault and murder occurred Friday, according to the felony complaint.

Before the search for the child began, neighbors said they had seen Warner walk outside the couple’s home carrying a bundle while the baby’s mother, his girlfriend, was at work.

The baby was reported missing by her parents, who walked into the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Santa Clarita Valley Station about 9 p.m. Friday.

The infant was pronounced dead at the scene, in a parking lot about a mile from the couple’s home, investigators said. Homicide detectives responded about 7:30 a.m. Saturday.

The victim was initially identified as Ellorah Rose Warner by her grandmother, and her identity was confirmed Tuesday by the county coroner’s office. The girl’s cause of death was not yet available to be released, a coroner’s official said.

Warner’s arraignment was slated for Tuesday but was postponed until Feb. 18. Wearing a yellow jail jumpsuit, Warner did appear in San Fernando Superior Court Tuesday.

His bail was set at $2.25 million.

Dad buries 10-year-old daughter alive because she was a girl (Tripura, India)

Dad is identified as ABDUL HUSSEIN.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/man-buried-10-year-old-daughter-alive-4993935

Man 'buried 10-year-old daughter alive because she was a girl'

Jan 17, 2015 10:20
By Jessica Best

Abdul Hussein is accused of gagging and tying up his young daughter before burying her in the ground while his wife was out

A man has been arrested for trying to bury his 10-year-old daughter alive because she was a girl.

Police say the shocking incident in Tripura, India, saw Abdul Hussein dig a pit in his back garden while his wife was out, and then put his daughter in the hole with her hands roped together and her mouth taped up.

Her dad is then said to have filled up the pit to chest level, with pictures showing the young girl with her arms and head above the dirt floor.

When Abdul's wife returned home he put a bamboo basket over their daughter's head, with the intention of burying her completely later on, NDTV reports.

But his wife began to question where the little girl was, and she was soon discovered by neighbours.

They are said to have beaten up the dad before calling police.

Abdul was then arrested, and now faces a charge of attempted murder.

The case comes four months after a seven-year-old girl clawed her way to safety after allegedly being strangled and buried alive in the Uttar Pradesh region of India.

The youngster was found by shocked villagers after they heard her cries for help.

The little girl, named Tanu, told police her aunt and uncle had taken her from her mother's house days earlier and buried her in the field.

Monday, January 26, 2015

Baby dies after being assaulted by dad (Iowa City, Iowa)

Dad is identified as OSCAR JIMINEZ.

http://whotv.com/2015/01/26/columbus-junction-baby-allegedly-injured-by-father-dies/

Columbus Junction Baby Allegedly Injured by Father Dies

Posted 6:42 pm, January 26, 2015, by Kelly Maricle

IOWA CITY, Iowa — A Columbus Junction baby being treated for severe head trauma has died from her injuries.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety says four-month-old Marleen Jimenez died Saturday at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

The father of the baby, 20-year-old Oscar Jimenez, is charged with one count of multiple acts of child endangerment in connection with the injuries.

An autopsy was performed Monday on the baby but officials have not released any results.

The investigation into the case continues.

Dad charged with homicide in death of 3-month-old daughter (Phenix City, Alabama)

Dad is identified as ROBERT ALLEN EARHART JR.

http://www.myfoxal.com/story/27944853/man-charged-with-murder-in-death-of-phenix-city-baby

Man charged with murder in death of Phenix City baby

Posted: Jan 26, 2015 5:50 PM EST Updated: Jan 26, 2015 5:51 PM EST

PHENIX CITY, AL (WSFA) - An arrest has been made in the January 17 death of a 3-month-old child in Phenix City. Following an investigation, Robert Allen Earhart, Jr. was taken into custody and charged with a homicide. Phenix City police responded to a medical call at the Steeple Crest Apartments on River Chase Drive just before 1 a.m. that Saturday where the child's mother reported her baby was not breathing. When first responders arrived on the scene they found the child's father performing CPR.

The child, identified as Alaina Addison Brodka, was transported to an area hospital where she died less than an hour later.

An autopsy revealed Brodka's cause of death to be blunt force trauma. Following the autopsy, Earhart was arrested and charged with murder. He is being held at the Lee County Jail. Bond information was not immediately available.

The investigation by the Criminal Investigation Division of the Phenix City Police Department is ongoing.

Custodial dad on trial for torture-murder of 10-year-old daughter; due to public protests, could be first father to get death penalty for killing a child (Yemen)

This is what institutionalized fathers rights looks like. YEMEN is a country where mothers--and women in general--are treated like dirt. The only reason custodial dad NOUH ALI SALEH AL-YEMENI might even be held accountable for the torture-murder of his daughter is that THOUSANDS have protested and DEMANDED that he get the death penalty. Normally, daddies get a slap on the wrist for killing their wives and children--if that. All you have to do is call it a matter of "honor" and you can do whatever the hell you want How convenient for a DIRTBAG like this guy.

http://www.yementimes.com/en/1854/report/4838/Trial-ongoing-for-man-who-killed-his-daughter-Public-outrage-could-lead-this-to-be-the-first-time-a-father-is-executed-for-killing-his-daugh.htm

Trial ongoing for man who killed his daughter Public outrage could lead this to be the first time a father is executed for killing his daughter

Published on 26 January 2015 in Report Ali Ibrahim Al-Moshki (author)

The murder of Maab on Dec. 26 caused public outrage, leading to an ongoing campaign to expedite the case against her father and introduce a legal precedent by sentencing the father to death.

After torturing his ten-year-old daughter Maab for several days, Nouh Ali Saleh Al-Yemeni, a 30-year-old onyx salesman and resident of Dhamar governorate, drove to Ibb’s Naqil Sumara Mountain on Dec. 26 where he held his pistol to his daughter’s back and pulled the trigger.

The reason: He believed his daughter was no longer a virgin.

Daughters being killed for so-called “dishonorable” behavior—whether it actually happened or not—is not unheard of in Yemen. According to the deputy director of the Public Relations Department at the Ministry of Interior, Mohammad Hizam, “Girls being killed by their families comes as a result of rape, online messaging, befriending boys, being sexually harassed by their own fathers, or as a result of grudges between the parents after they are divorced.”

While the Interior Ministry does not have statistics regarding such incidents, Hizam said he knows of “dozens of similar cases.” Furthermore, the head of the Family Protection Department in the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier Suad Al-Qa’tabi, told the Yemen Times that no father has been sentenced to death for killing his daughter so far. The reason, she said, is fathers’ alleged defense of honor which usually results in the lesser penalty of imprisonment.

“The coordinating authority for NGOs working in the field of child rights held, in cooperation with the civil society organizations of Dhamar, a seminar entitled: ‘Advocating Maab Al-Yemeni’s Case.’”

“The coordinating authority for NGOs working in the field of child rights held, in cooperation with the civil society organizations of Dhamar, a seminar entitled: ‘Advocating Maab Al-Yemeni’s Case.’”

Public pressure for a swift trial #The murder of Maab by her father is unique, according to Hezam, in that it was unusually cruel and grabbed the attention—and captured the anger—of the public.

Similar cases of children being killed by their families usually proceed slowly, if at all. And if they do not get lost somewhere along the way in the country’s disorganized, if not dysfunctional, legal system, the verdict tends to be lenient.

Colonel Muhammad Ali Al-Haddi, the director of the Dhamar Criminal Investigations Bureau, told the Yemen Times that court proceedings would have taken “a very long time” had protests by local residents not expedited the case.

Demonstrations were triggered in Dhamar by photos of Maab’s mutilated corpse, which surfaced online and indicated that the girl had been severely tortured before her death. With considerable evidence implicating the girl’s father in the killing, protesters called for Nouh himself to be killed. Since the first protest on Dec. 29, thousands have been gathering every Thursday and Friday to date, demanding capital punishment for the so-called “killer of innocence.”

Nouh was arrested on the morning of Dec. 27, only hours after killing his daughter. #“During the investigation Al-Yemeni willingly confessed to having murdered his daughter,” Al-Haddi said. “We made him think that we had him under surveillance a few days before he killed his daughter and that denying it would do him no good.”

According to Al-Haddi, the perpetrator was transferred to Ibb governorate’s Criminal Investigation Bureau following his confession. The investigation moved slowly as a result of the country’s political crisis, but, in compliance with protesters’ demands, the case was soon transferred from Ibb to the Criminal Investigation Bureau branch in Dhamar.

The undersecretary of the West Dhamar prosecution office, Ahmad Al-Qeiz, told the Yemen Times that the prosecution finished interrogating the victim’s father and referred the suspect to West Dhamar Preliminary Court on Jan. 12. Only two days later, on Jan. 14 the trial began.

According to Al-Qeiz, “In the first trial session, headed by Abdu Al-Hajuri, the prosecution accused the suspect of willfully killing his daughter Maab.” The allegations are haunting, he said. “The indictment read that the accused tortured and beat his daughter for days. He stabbed her and burned her skin using a clothes hanger and an iron. At night he took her to a vacant area in Naqil Sumara, Ibb governorate, and shot her several times with a pistol, killing her instantly. Leaving her body behind, he left.”

Al-Haddi said the court has definitive evidence proving the suspect is guilty: A video of the father conducting various methods of torture on the ten-year-old girl, which left scars all over her body. Al-Haddi also said there is evidence of careful planning by the father to carry out the killing, as demonstrated by his purchasing of a pistol and his travel plans.

Al-Haddi said the culprit is not considered criminally insane.

According to Al-Qeiz, the prosecution has submitted as evidence the murder weapon and projectiles taken from the girls body, as well as the suspect’s cellphone, which contains video clips of the victim while she was being tortured.

The prosecution is demanding the accused be executed in accordance with article 234 of the Penal Code.

Fuad Al-Khazan, who has a law firm in Sana’a, told the Yemen Times that the normal punishment for a father killing his son or daughter is ten years imprisonment. Where torture is involved, as in Maab’s case, the punishment can be life in prison. According to Al-Khazan, the penal code does not permit for a father to be executed for killing his offspring, and with this specific case there is considerable pressure from the public for the father to be punished by death.

Al-Qeiz expects a verdict will be announced within the coming few days because all evidence indicates the suspect is guilty of a “crime against humanity.” The suspect has thus far not hired a lawyer. Nouh Al-Yemeni admitted to the torture and murder of his daughter Maab and claimed he did so because she was no longer a virgin.

What drove Nouh to kill his daughter?

According to Al-Haddi, Nouh suspected that his daughter was practicing prostitution and had her undergo virginity tests at three different hospitals, the last one being the Specialized Motherhood Hospital in Sana’a.

At all three hospitals it was determined that the ten-year-old was still a virgin. Despite these expert opinions, Nough remained unconvinced.

An interview Nouh gave to Marib Press after his arrest is telling of his unstable condition and relationship with his daughter. “I asked my daughter Maab to read the Holy Quran with her two sisters but she refused. She was sitting in the kitchen chatting with her mother on her cellphone, and then she ran into the bathroom. I told her to come out but she refused, then I threatened to kill her myself if she didn’t not come out,” he said. “When she came out I asked her to tell me the truth about whom she was speaking with otherwise I would kill her.”

Nouh is divorced and has three daughters from the marriage, including Maab. His ex-wife, who is from Ibb governorate, remarried and all three children were left in his custody.

When Maab told him she was chatting with her mother, Nouh said he became upset and hit her. “She told me her mother had forced her to stay on the phone by threatening to tell me, her father, that she was having sexual relationships with boys.” Maab went on to say, according to Nouh’s statement, that her mother made her perform sexual acts with other men with the intent of upsetting him. None of Nouh’s claims could be verified by the Yemen Times.

Brigadier Abdulkarim Al-Odaini, the general director of Dhamar governorate’s police, told the Yemen Times that the perpetrator’s accusations do not justify the murder. He said that preliminary examinations indicate the girl was not raped and did not have sexual relations before. In Al-Odaini’s view, Nouh killed his daughter to get back at his wife who divorced him and re-married someone else.

Nabil Al-Khadher, head of the Sana’a-based human rights organization Dhamanat (“Guarantees”), said the judiciary must punish the perpetrator to the full extent of the law, and agrees that capital punishment is suitable for the nature of Nouh’s crime.

Dad in court for assaulting 8-year-old daughter (Fiji)

UNNAMED DAD

http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=293100

Dad in court for assault

Mere Naleba Tuesday, January 27, 2015

THE father accused of assaulting his eight-year-old daughter has been further remanded in custody after appearing in the Nasinu Magistrates Court yesterday.

The man appeared before Magistrate Charles Ratakele.

He was told the court would decide on his bail application in the next court hearing.

The accused, while requesting bail, told the court he was the breadwinner in his family, where five of his seven children were still in school.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Feroz Khan objected to bail on the grounds that the accused had a habit of hitting all his children.

He asked the court to remand the man in custody for the safety and welfare of the victim, as well as her siblings.

The matter has been adjourned to February 6.

Victims of killer dad identified, father stabbed to death 5-month-old daughter, family friend (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

The mother and her boyfriend were also seriously wounded by the baby's father.

The parents were obviously no longer together, but what custody rights the killer had, if any, are not specified.

Though the victims are finally identified, the killer is still an UNNAMED DAD.

http://fox6now.com/2015/01/26/update-police-id-two-killed-in-stabbing-on-milwaukees-west-side/

IDENTIFIED: Five-month-old baby girl, 39-year-old man stabbed to death near 39th and Clybourn

Posted 11:46 am, January 26, 2015, by Krystle Kacner and Katie DeLong, Updated at 06:19pm, January 26, 2015

MILWAUKEE (WITI) — The victims have been identified in the January 23rd double homicide that occurred near N. 39th and Clybourn. They are five-month-old Kairii Dailey, and 39-year-old Paul Kucharczyk.

Two other victims, a 19-year-old woman (the baby’s mother, Alexia Dailey) and her 22-year-old boyfriend, Christopher Hamilton continue to receive treatment at the hospital.

A 20-year-old man remains in custody for the crime. Charges are expected to be filed in the coming days.

The stabbing incident happened in a duplex near 39th and Clybourn around 8:30 a.m. last Friday.

Police say Kairii Dailey was stabbed and died as she was laying in her crib — allegedly by her father. He’s accused of stabbing three others, including the baby’s mother, Alexia Dailey. Alexia Dailey’s family tells FOX6 News she has already had extensive surgery. She continues to recover at Froedtert Hospital.

The family has established a GoFundMe.com account to raise money for Alexia Dailey’s medical expenses, and Kairii Dailey’s funeral services. Nearly $2,000 has been raised in two days. #Alexia Dailey’s family didn’t want to talk with FOX6 News on camera, but they did release a statement:

“We appreciate the outpouring of support and concern we’ve been receiving. We ask for privacy as we focus on Lexi getting well, and as we begin the recovery process. Please continue to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.”

Another family in need of prayers and support is that of Paul Kucharczyk. Alexia Dailey’s grandfather says Kucharczyk was Alexia Dailey’s Godfather — and last Friday morning, the family says he was a hero. Dailey’s grandfather says his actions, and that of Alexia Dailey’s current boyfriend, Christopher Hamilton saved the young mother’s life.

Alexia Dailey’s family acknowledges it is a life that’s forever changed, and say as strong as she is, she’ll need help and support as she moves forward — especially as she lays her five-month-old daughter to rest.

Christopher Hamilton’s family tells FOX6 News he could be released from the hospital as soon as Monday, January 26th — but he faces permanent disability in his hands as a result of his injuries. His family has established a GoFundMe.com account in his honor.

Again — charges are expected against the 20-year-old suspect in the coming days.

Police say this was a case that involved domestic violence — and encouraged those who are experiencing domestic violence, or know someone who is to seek help.

Milwaukee’s Sojourner Family Peace Center helps thousands victims of domestic abuse every year.

The Sojourner Family Peace Center is the largest non-profit provider of domestic violence prevention and intervention services in Wisconsin.

Sojourner provides an array of support aimed at helping families affected by domestic violence to achieve safety, justice and well-being.

On its website, the Sojourner Family Peace Center says its primary goals are to ensure the safety of victims of family violence, and provide a pathway out of violence for victims and abusers through opportunities to make positive and lasting changes for themselves and their children.

The Sojourner Family Peace Center offers Sojourner Truth — an emergency domestic violence shelter for women and children.

The 46-bed emergency shelter offers a safe respite for battered women, sexual assault victims and their children.

The Sojourner Family Peace Center also offers a 24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline that can help callers of all ages.

All calls are confidential.

Also available via the Sojourner Family Peace Center — support groups held in confidential locations.

The Sojourner Family Peace Center can also help you file a restraining order.

If you need help, or you know someone who does — contact the Sojourner Family Peace Center at 414-933-2722.

Another resource for domestic violence victims is the Milwaukee Women’s Center.

Founded in 1980, the Milwaukee Women’s Center provides comprehensive services and treatment for women, men, and children whose lives have been affected by domestic violence, addiction, mental health issues, and poverty.

In June 2007, to ensure the continuation of critical domestic violence resources in Milwaukee County, the Milwaukee Women’s Center became a Division of Community Advocates.

Each year, more than 1,000 women, men, and children benefit from direct intervention, treatment, and prevention services, while more than 12,000 individuals receive assistance through the 24-Hour Crisis Line and community education programs.

The Milwaukee Women’s Center operates one of only two domestic violence shelters for women and children in Milwaukee County.

In addition to the shelter, the Milwaukee Women’s Center offers comprehensive programming for the entire family, with the goal of ending the cycle of violence, abuse, and addiction that grips so many families for generations.

If you or someone you know is in need of emergency shelter or help with domestic abuse or other issues, please call the Milwaukee Women’s Center at 414-671-6140.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

Dad charged with child pornography; promised to send images of newborn baby being sexually abused (Brisbane, Australia)

Dad is identified as ASHLEY DAVID HILL.

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/man-charged-with-child-pornography-after-allegedly-promising-to-send-images-of-his-unborn-baby/story-fnn8dlfs-1227195824240

Man charged with child pornography after allegedly promising to send images of his unborn baby 

Brooke Baskin The Courier-Mail January 25, 2015 12:00AM

IN A case that is set to shock the nation, a Brisbane man has been charged with child pornography after promising to send explicit images of his newborn baby via the internet.

Ashley David Hill, 23, a chef from the northside suburb of Chermside, allegedly promised to send images of his newborn baby being abused to an undercover FBI agent posing as a pedophile in the US.

Hill fronted the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday charged with using a carriage service for child pornography material and three counts of possessing child pornography, following his arrest by Australian Federal Police on Friday.

He was allegedly using a file-sharing service to send and receive child pornography images with another person via the internet.

It was alleged the man’s partner was just weeks away from giving birth when he allegedly brokered an online deal to supply images of his newborn baby being abused to the undercover agent in the US.

The Sunday Mail understands the soon-to-be-father ­provided a scanned copy of a recent ultrasound of his unborn child to the agent as proof of his preparedness to follow through with the plan.

It was not clear whether the man organised monetary payment for the abuse images of his newborn child or whether they were to be in exchange for further child exploitation images from the US contact.

Federal police searched the man’s home on Friday following a tip-off from authorities overseas and allegedly found a large number of child exploitation images on computers and hard drives in the man’s possession.

Lawyer Rhianna Batt applied for bail on the man’s behalf yesterday, subject to strict conditions requested by police.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Matt Kahler asked that the man be banned from using the internet, not have any unsupervised contact with children aged under 16, not attend any point of international departure and that he reside at a home in Chermside while on bail.

Ms Batt said her client was willing to comply with all conditions, adding that because he worked as a chef there was no reason for him to use the internet.

Magistrate Tina Previtera granted bail subject to onerous conditions, including that he surrender his passport to authorities.

No one was waiting for the man as he was released from the Brisbane City Watchhouse and he made no comment to waiting media.

He will front court again on February 13.

If convicted, the man faces up to 15 years behind bars under the Commonwealth Criminal Code.

Dad charged with 2nd-degree murder in death of 2-year-old son (Toronto, Canada)

Dad is identified as MARIO WINT.

http://www.torontosun.com/2015/01/24/dad-charged-in-death-of-two-year-old-son

Dad charged in death of two-year-old son 

By Chris Doucette, Toronto Sun

First posted: Saturday, January 24, 2015 04:46 PM EST | Updated: Saturday, January 24, 2015 07:08 PM EST

TORONTO - A 29-year-old Newmarket father is accused of killing his two-year-old son, York Regional Police said Saturday.

Police said they received a call regarding “an injured person” at a home on Longford Dr., near Yonge St. and Davis Dr., around 2:20 p.m. on Thursday.

“Officers arrived on scene and located a two-year-old boy who was not breathing,” Const. Laura Nicolle said. “The child was transported to hospital where he was pronounced deceased.”

Homicide detectives have been investigating the toddler’s death since then and on Saturday they arrested his dad, she said.

Mario Wint, 29, faces a charge of second-degree murder.

The accused is scheduled to appear in Newmarket court for a bail hearing on Sunday.

“This investigation is ongoing and the cause of death of the child will not be released at this time to preserve the integrity of the investigation,” Nicolle said.

The semi-detached home, where the toddler was found, — northeast of Davis Dr. and Yonge St. — was guarded by a York Regional Police vehicle Saturday. Yellow police tape on the property prevented people from coming or going.

Anyone with information regarding this murder probe should call the homicide unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7865, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Dad arrested for murder of 3-week-old daughter (Santa Clarita, California)

It happens again and again. Mother has to work and earn a living--even though SHE HAS A NEWBORN INFANT. Why? Take your pick. Liberals would say that we don't have paid maternity leaves. Fair enough. Conservatives might say that fathers are no longer held accountable for supporting their children or the mothers of their children. Also a good point. The end result is brutal for both mother and child either way.

In reality, we have lots of deadbeat violent criminal fathers like this one, who are drafted into infant care because Mom has to earn a paycheck. And these guys are devoid of patience, nurturing skills, or ability to love. So the same outcome happens again and again...

The FR lie that fathers--even those with histories of criminal activity and violence--are just as good as caretaking as mothers is finally coming home roost. And both liberals and conservatives push this lie.

Dad is identified as MATTHEW WARNER.

http://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-0125-missing-baby-20150125-story.html

Father held in death of 3-week-old Santa Clarita girl

Newhall Father Arrested for Allegedly Killing His 3-Week-Old Daughter

Nearly 12 hours after a 3-week-old baby girl from Newhall was reported missing by her parents, the infant's body was found and her father was arrested for allegedly killing her, according to officials.

By Esmeralda Bermudez
January 24, 2015, 7:53 PM

Ellorah Rose Warner was born with gentle blue eyes and a full head of dark brown hair..

When the 3-week-old went missing Friday, gifts and well wishes were still arriving in the mail, a family member said.

Her body was found Saturday morning in a pickup truck in Santa Clarita. Soon after, her father, Matthew Warner, 30, was arrested on suspicion of murder.

“I wish I could turn back the hands of time and I would have seen something. I would have stopped it.” - Mario Garcia, neighbor of slain girl's family

Warner and his girlfriend, the child's mother, arrived at the sheriff's station about 9:30 p.m. Friday to report the girl missing. Deputies from three stations set out on an all-night search with helicopters, canines and the help of neighbors. They held the couple overnight for questioning and searched their apartment, authorities said.

About 7 a.m., Warner led deputies to a small, blue-gray truck parked outside an apartment complex in the 23600 block of Newhall Avenue, about half a mile from the family's home.

The baby was found dead in the front cab, said Lt. Holly Francisco of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Details of how she died were not released because of the pending investigation.

"It's a tragic situation for everybody involved," Francisco said, adding that the mother would be held for additional questioning. She described the woman, whose name was not released, as distraught.

"She's behaving as any mother who just lost their child would behave," Francisco said.

Residents of the quiet apartment complex where the couple lived with the baby and her grandmother were shaken by the news. They planned to start a fund to help the family with the funeral costs.

"I wish I could turn back the hands of time and I would have seen something," said Mario Garcia, 36. "I would have stopped it."

Saturday afternoon, Nan Allison, the child's grandmother, sat somberly in a lawn chair outside the family's apartment. She was surrounded by neighbors and yellow crime scene tape. A few feet away, homicide detectives searched her home for clues.

Ellorah was her first grandchild. She had learned of her death a few hours earlier.

She said her daughter, who had returned to work as a daycare provider, left for her job early Friday morning. Warner and Ellorah remained in the couple's room.

Allison had a rocky relationship with Warner, who had dated her daughter for about two years. He had been in jail and didn't have a job, she said.

That morning, Allison said, she heard some rustling and unusual noises coming from the couple's bedroom. The baby's crying seemed weak. As the afternoon progressed, she didn't hear her granddaughter anymore. She thought perhaps the child had fallen asleep.

By 5 p.m., when she noticed the breast milk her daughter left in the refrigerator had not been touched and saw that Warner was acting unusually hyper, she tried to call her daughter. But she said Warner had disconnected the phone line.

Allison then went to a neighbor's house to call police. But Warner had left and police were unable to locate him.

Dad murders 7-year-old dauughter, shoots 12-year-old daughter in the head who called 911; what happened to the mother of these girls? (New York, New York)

 Another one of those accounts that focuses on hand-wringing, but fails to ask--much less answer--some significant questions about this SLAUGHTER of two women and one girl (the killer's 7-year-old daughter)--and the critical wounding of anther girl (the 12-year-old daughter who managed to call 911 after being shot in the head.)

Notice that the two women who were murdered were the killer daddy's girlfriend and the killer daddy's girlfriend' mother. There was NO MOTHER in the home.

WHAT HAPPENED TO THE MOTHER? Was she deceased? If so, from natural causes? Did she "disappear"? Was she stripped of custody by this violent scumbag?

We know that the father has a HISTORY OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, even though the girlfriend's family claims to be ignorant of that fact. So the mother' s fate is a significant question.

And given that this killer dad had a history of domestic violence, who allowed him to have any access to these kids at all? And I can't help but wonder whether JONATHON WALKER was a custodial father, though this account--like most accounts of killer fathers--refuses to acknowledge or discuss the father's custodial "rights" and how those "rights" allowed him access to his murder victims.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/24/girl-shot-in-head-calls-911_n_6538544.html

12-Year-Old Queens Girl Shot In Head Calls 911 After Father Murders Family

AP Posted: 01/24/2015 3:21 pm EST Updated: 01/24/2015 3:59 pm EST

NEW YORK (AP) -- In the quiet of a pre-dawn Saturday on a dead-end street, a father came home and shot his family in their heads, leaving women in three generations dead and a wounded 12-year-old girl calling 911, police said.

"What I did, I cannot come back from," Jonathon Walker told his brother by phone soon afterward, police said. And Walker did not come back - police said he killed himself in his car on a desolate street a few miles away, ending a burst of violence that stunned relatives who said the family hadn't shown signs of trouble.

The 34-year-old security guard had killed his 7-year-old daughter, Kayla Walker; his 31-year-old girlfriend, Shantai Hale; and Hale's mother, Viola Warren, 62. His and Hale's older daughter, whom a relative identified as Christina Walker, was hospitalized in stable condition, police said.

Investigators were trying to trace Walker's movements before the shooting as relatives struggled to comprehend shootings that struck them as inexplicable.

"I can't believe this happened. I can't believe this happened," Doreen Warren, the eldest victim's mother, sobbed by phone.

While Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce said police had taken reports for domestic incidents at the home in 2005 and 2006 for "nominal matters" and Walker had been arrested twice in now-sealed cases, relatives said they weren't aware of any family strife or concerns about Walker.

"There was no indication of anything that would remotely make him do this," Wendell Warren, Viola Warren's brother, said as he wiped tears from his eyes outside the home on a suburban-style street in Queens, near a park and John F. Kennedy International Airport. Warren had fixed a broken boiler at the home just last week.

"We'll be baffled for years," he said.

Doreen Warren said Walker had joined in a pleasant family gathering at Christmas and her daughter and granddaughter never complained to her about him. She said she had spoken to Viola Warren, who worked at the airport, just two days ago.

"Nobody even dreamed of anything like this," added Silford Warren, another of Viola Warren's brothers.

The bloody scene unfolded suddenly and quickly - Walker showed up to the home at 5:38 a.m., and his 12-year-old daughter called 911 a few minutes afterward to report that her father had shot the family, Boyce said. When officers arrived three minutes later, Walker was gone.

They searched for his SUV and found it within hours, with Walker's body and a .45-caliber gun inside, Boyce said.

The victims were found on the home's floor, he said.

Christina underwent surgery later Saturday, but "she's always tough. She's determined to live," Wendell Warren said. His mother called Christina and her slain sister "two beautiful girls, sweet girls."

As police sought Walker, Doreen Walker woke up at her home elsewhere in New York City. She turned on the TV to hear violent news, and then had the shock of realizing it concerned her own family.

"You see these things on television," she said, "and you never know when they're going to hit home."

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Dad arrested in stabbing death of 6-month-old daughter; mom wounded (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

The father and the mother were obviously no longer together, since the mother' boyfriend was also wounded. Whether the UNNAMED DAD had legal custody/visitation is not explained, nor why he had access.

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/crime/3662884-wisconsin-father-accused-stabbing-infant-daughter-death

Wisconsin father accused of stabbing infant daughter to death

By Mark Guarino, Reuters Today at 3:46 p.m.

A Wisconsin man is suspected of stabbing his 5-month-old daughter to death in her crib on Friday and killing a family friend in a violent attack in which two other people were wounded, including the child's mother, Milwaukee police said.

The baby's 19-year-old mother and her 22-year-old boyfriend, who is not the child's father, suffered stab wounds and are being treated in a local hospital, while a 39-year-old family friend was stabbed to death, according to police.

Police said they arrested a man who they found in a bathroom of the Milwaukee apartment where the attack occurred suffering from superficial stab wounds. He is identified as the father of the child.

"We are not seeking any other suspects," Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn told reporters, adding that the investigation was ongoing and that the wounded couple had "recently established a relationship."

Police did not identify the suspect.

Flynn said homicides have spiked in Milwaukee so far this year, with 13 homicides recorded in January compared to just one by this time a year ago.

A call and email to a Milwaukee Police spokesman was not immediately returned.

Friday, January 23, 2015

Mom trying to regain custody of 5-year-old daughter from registered sex offender dad (Bakersfield, California)

The triumph of fathers rights. Basically an unholy alliance of pedophiliacs and corrupt politicians and judges.

The CUSTODIAL registered sex offender dad is identified as NICHOLAS ALIZONDO.

http://www.bakersfieldnow.com/news/investigations/Sex-offender-child-custody-dispute-289528181.html

Sex offender involved in child custody dispute

By Jose Gaspar, Eyewitness News

Published: Jan 22, 2015 at 10:58 PM PST
Last Updated: Jan 23, 2015 at 11:05 AM PST

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) - In an unusual child custody battle, a Bakersfield mom is trying to regain custody of her daughter who was placed by a judge with the father.

But, the father is a registered sex offender.

"I can take care of her," said the mother, Lisa Knight. "I have that close relationship with her. I know exactly how she feels."

The case of Lisa Knight vs. Nicholas Elizondo drew national attention in 2013 because of the uncommon circumstance. Knight and Elizondo were married, had a daughter and later divorced.

Knight moved to Oklahoma and lived there with the daughter. Elizondo later traveled to Oklahoma and fought for custody of the 6-year-old girl.

For unknown reason, a judge in Oklahoma awarded custody to Elizondo.

Knight claims she doesn't understand why a judge would award custody to her ex-husband despite his criminal conviction. #"I have no idea," said Knight.

According to court documents obtained by Eyewitness News, 56-year-old Elizondo pleaded no contest in 1995 to one count of lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14. He was sentenced to six years in prison. At that time, Elizondo worked as a parole officer and was a board member of the Young Republicans Federation of Kern County.

Efforts to contact Elizondo for comment were unsuccessful, and calls placed to his attorney, Larry Wilson, were not returned.

Knight returned to Bakersfield last year to fight for custody. She is acting as her own attorney, she said, because she does not have the money to hire one.

Knight keeps a voluminous file of legal papers and said she has evidence that will help her regain custody of her daughter. But, it may be more difficult.

"From the last order, what has changed?" said Bakersfield family law attorney David Leon, who is not associated with the case. "What change of circumstances have occurred that would warrant a change of custody?"

Leon believes that the judge in Bakersfield will not necessarily let Elizondo's status as a sex offender be a major factor, because that issue has already been litigated in Oklahoma.

"Judges can look at all the circumstances, obviously, to make sure a child is protected. But, in my opinion, they wouldn't be relitigating that issue," said Leon.

Knight said she has no record of any criminal history or drug use that may have played a role in losing her daughter. A check on the Kern County Superior Court website shows no criminal history for Knight.

A check on the Oklahoma State Courts website also shows no record of criminal history by Knight.

The case is scheduled to go to court in February. Eyewitness News will continue to follow this story and report on the latest developments.

Dad accused of fatal beating of 4-year-old son during 1st overnight visitation faces more charges (Jeffersonville, Indiana)

A previous account mentioned that this fatal beating took place during the father's first overnight visitation. But that point is now dropped.

Instead, the media is focusing on "parents" who have problems with "temper" or "losing control." Well, that's very nice and all. But we really need to pay attention to the dangers of putting children in custody/visitation situations with abusive fathers--especially those who were never married to the mother or had any commitment to her.

Dad is identified as CHISTOPHER BRUCK.

http://www.wdrb.com/story/27912509/father-accused-of-beating-4-year-old-child-who-died-faces-more-charges

Father accused of beating 4-year-old child who died faces more charges

Posted: Jan 22, 2015 10:20 AM EST
Updated: Jan 22, 2015 5:04 PM EST

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (WDRB) -- The man accused of beating his 4-year-old son is now facing more charges.

Christopher Bruck, 27, was expected to appear in court Thursday afternoon on upgraded charges -- aggravated battery resulting in the death of a child and neglect of a dependent resulting in the death of a child.

Authorities arrested Bruck after police say he abused his 4-year-old son. Police say the abuse happened at Bruck's home, which is in the 20000 block of Campbell Street in Underwood.

Bruck's son, Hayden Dukes, was hospitalized for several days before dying from his injuries on Jan. 8. Police responded to Kosair Children's Hospital in Louisville after Bruck brought the child there on Jan. 3 with a severe head injury. He told hospital staff members that Hayden was injured when he fell and hit his head. That's when hospital officials called police.

Clark County Deputy Prosecutor Jeremy Mull says Bruck caused the child's injuries.

"The investigation so far has yielded the fact that the child was simply trying to interact with [Bruck] while he was watching television, that the defendant became irritated at that and this battery then occurred," Mull said. #But Mull told reporters he doesn't have enough evidence for a murder charge.

"The murder charge actually requires a knowing or intentional killing. In other words, you killed someone on purpose and that's simply not the evidence I have at this time," he said.

Bruck was originally charged with aggravated battery.

"For every case we hear about in the media, we usually have multiple happening behind the scenes," said Dr. Melissa Currie, the Medical Director and Chief for Kosair Charities Division of Pediatric Forensic Medicine.

Dr. Currie told WDRB child abuse is much too common.

"A parent losing control is not uncommon to hear about but certainly there are things we can do to prevent that and I think that goes back to making sure we only leave children in the care of people who have the skills and who are prepared," she said.

She says there are signs everyone should look for.

"Anytime an adult is known to have a problem with a temper or anger. It's all of our responsibility to keep the kids in our community safe and here in Kentucky, we have a mandated reporting law that any of us that has a reasonable suspicion that neglect or abuse occurring, they're required by law to report that," she said.

Custodial dad, step still being investigated for beating 15-year-old son, shackling him to bed for five months; what happened to this boy's mother? (Pooler, Georgia)

Though the reporter goes into a long treatise on "intergenerational cycles of abuse" blah blah, some very basic questions are not answered, much less asked: How did this abusive father get custody? Who gave it to him and why? And what happened to the mother of this boy?

The custodial dad is identified as DANIEL KENDZIERSKI.  

http://www.myfoxal.com/story/27917308/investigation-continues-after-parents-arrested-for-reportedly-shackling-teen-to-bed

Investigation continues after parents arrested for reportedly shackling teen to bed

Posted: Jan 22, 2015 4:35 PM EST Updated: Jan 22, 2015 6:00 PM EST

By Conny Cooper

POOLER, GA (WTOC) - Police are continuing to investigate after a Pooler teen reported he was beaten and kept shackled to his bed. His father and stepmother have both been charged with child abuse.

Police said Christine and Daniel Kendzierski kept the 15-year-old shackled to a metal bed for five months. According to the police report, the boy's 12-year-old brother was forced to act as his jailer, unlocking his shackles so he could go to the bathroom and to school, then locking him back up again.

Forensics officers and detectives were out at the house on Thursday, searching the home and taking photos and bringing out bags of evidence.

When asked whether more charges would be coming for the parents, Lt. Karen Zantow said, “Not today. Maybe later, I do not know, but not today.”

All six children who lived in the home are now in the custody of the Department of Family and Children Services. “We're just continuing with the investigation. Trying to generate and see if there is a case here to continue on with so we can help protect kids," Zantow said.

This went on for five months, according to a police report. Police said Daniel Kenzierski gave his son what he called, quote, “iron chair beatings”, and that the shackles were punishment.

The boy told a classmate, and the classmate told his father. One week ago the father told police.

“The kid said he called DFCS before and they did nothing,” Nicholas Hargroves said.

According to a police report, Christine and Daniel Kenzierski didn't realize the punishment was abuse, with Christine saying she was only doing what had been done to her as a child.

"Most of us did not have to endure that kind of punishment as a child, but I guess if you did, that's in the back of your mind,” said Psychologist Dr. Susan Lamb. “This is what normal parents do."

Lamb shuddered when she read the report.

“It is a tough one,” she said.

But she said intergenerational cycles of abuse are far too common.

“People are doing what was done to them,” said Lamb. “It's what's there inside them, and it takes a lot of effort to break the patterns.”

Both parents are now free on bond. A date has not been set for their plea hearing.

Daniel Kenzierski faces an additional charge of false imprisonment, and more charges could be coming.

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Dad charged with abusing 2-month-old son; baby has five bone fractures (Marion, North Carolina)

Not real clear what was going on here. I assume the "roommate" is not the mother. So if this is the father, why was he watching the baby for the "roommate"? At any rate, there is no mention of the mother and I'm thinking there was no mother in the household. Who knows what the custody arrangement was in this mess. But clearly it didn't work well for this poor baby who is hardly more than a newborn, but was being subjected to "caretaking" by a dickhead like this.

Dad is identified as BYRON COLE PACE.

http://www.wlos.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/teen-father-charged-abuse-2monthold-19423.shtml#.VMHRTNE5Bjw

Teen Father Charged with Abuse of 2-Month-Old
Updated: Thursday, January 22 2015, 11:02 PM EST

MARION, N.C. -- A teen father has been charged after his 2-month-old son suffered bone fractures while in his care.

Byron Cole Pace, 19, is charged with felony intentional child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury.

According to the sheriff's office, Pace was watching the child while his roommate was at work. When his roommate returned, the baby was blue, coughing and non-respondent.

They took the child to McDowell Hospital. He was then transferred to Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville for treatment. The baby was released Thursday.

Detectives say the boy sustained five bone fractures. The investigation continues.

Dad found guilty of aggravated malicious wounding of 3-year-old daughter (Virginia Beach, Virginia)

According to this somewhat sketchy coverage, the mother retained custody and has moved out of state. It is not clear whether the parents were together when the assault happened or whether they were separated and the assault took place during the father's access time.

Dad is identified as ERICO SAWYER.

http://www.13newsnow.com/story/news/2014/07/07/update-virginia-beach-father-indicted-for-child-abuse-/14829726/

UPDATE: Virginia Beach father guilty of child abuse

Staff, 13News Now 3:46 p.m. EST January 22, 2015

UPDATE 1/22/14: Erico Sawyer was found guilty of aggravated malicious wounding and child neglect. He could receive up to life in prison plus 10 years. Sawyer will be formally sentenced on April 20th.

UPDATE 7/7/13: Erico Sawyer was indicted for aggravated malicious wounding Monday.

Sawyer was originally charged with malicious wounding, which carries a maximum of 20 years. He had a court date of June 17 where he was expected to plead guilty, but Erico changed his mind. He has now been indicted for aggravated malicious wounding, which carries a penalty of 20 years to life in prison.

According to the Commonwealth's Attorney Office, the baby and her mother have moved to Colorado, and the only detail the spokewoman could offer is that the baby was hospitalized for about a month and is expected to live.

Sawyer remains in custody on no bond.

UPDATE 9/20/12.: Erico Sawyer appeared in court today and was not granted bond; the little girl is on life support. The child's grandmother says the girl had strokes on both sides of her brain and they may have to remove part of her skull to reduce the swelling in her brain.

He is due in court for a preliminary hearing on September 30.

*****

VIRGINIA BEACH -- A 3-year-old child is in a Norfolk hospital in critical condition and her father is facing charges.

Police say the girl was taken to Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters Monday around 3:30 p.m., but they did not reveal the nature of her injuries.

Following an investigation at the hospital, detectives arrested 28-year-old Erico Gerard Sawyer of the 2200 block of Acorn Cove in Virginia Beach.

He's in jail charged with felony child neglect.

This case remains under investigation.

Custodial dad wanted in death of 5-year-old daughter (Port Maria, St. Mary, Jamaica)

If you read the account carefully, it is obvious that DWIGHT COLEMAN is a custodial father. The clues:

1) It is reported that the child lived with the father at the address where her dead body is found. And there is no mention of the mother....

2) The cowardly father called HIS mother from his home phone and told her to "check" on the child, knowing full well she was either dead or critically injured. Then he took off and "disappeared." If the girl's mother had lived in the home, at some point SHE would have found the body making the call unnecessary. Or he could have called HER, but he didn't.

3) And, to reiterate the point, there is no mention of the girl's mother, who has been erased from the account entirely.

So how did this father acquire custody of this young girl? Who gave it to him? And what happened to the mother? Was she subjected to similar treatment? The odds are very high....

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/ONLINE-UPDATE---Child-found-dead-in-St-Mary-identified--police-seek-father

UPDATE: Child found dead in St Mary identified, police seek father

Wednesday, January 21, 2015 | 9:44 PM

Port Maria, St Mary — The body of a child which was reportedly discovered by a family member in her home in Frontier Heights Port Maria has been identified as that of five-year-old Crystal Coleman. The child’s body was discovered shortly after 1:00 pm on Wednesday, January 21.

The St Mary police are now seeking the child’s father to assist with investigations.

According to the St Mary police, Crystal resided at the given address with her 27-year-old father Dwight Coleman, who left the home on Wednesday afternoon shortly after making a call to his mother asking her to check on the child. This was done and the child’s body found.

The police say they suspect foul play in the death of the child. According to the police, there were marks of physical abuse seen all over the child’s body.

The whereabouts of Coleman was unknown up to late Wednesday evening. The police say they are appealing to Coleman to come forward as they believe he can assist with the investigations.

RENAE DIXON

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Dad with previous conviction for domestic battery charged with sexually abusing 4-year-old daughter during visitation (Farmington, New Mexico)

Of course, the fathers-right lawyer is smearing the mother as a liar and alienator. Don't they always? It goes without saying that this will be served up as a "poor daddies have no rights" case.

In fact, it's the exact opposite. Why should a father with a CONVICTION for domestic battery, and a history of abuse against the mother, have any access at all? Or any credibility at all? Knowing how abusers think, you could almost predict that the father would somehow use the child to retaliate against the mother, which he did.

Dad is identified as ROBERT BATTAGLIA.

http://www.daily-times.com/four_corners-news/ci_27366972/da-plans-charge-bloomfield-father-district-court-molesting

DA plans to charge Bloomfield father in district court for allegedly molesting 4-year-old daughter

Mother: Ex-husband deserves maximum sentence

By Steve Garrison The Daily Times
Updated: 01/21/2015 08:20:54 PM

FARMINGTON — A 26-year-old Bloomfield man is expected to be charged in district court with two child sex offenses after being accused of molesting his 4-year-old daughter.

Robert Battaglia was charged in November in Farmington Magistrate Court with first-degree criminal sexual penetration of a child and criminal sexual contact with a minor, a third-degree felony. The case was dismissed without prejudice last week.

San Juan County Chief Deputy District Attorney Dustin O'Brien said his office will soon refile the case in district court. He said his office has decided to pursue charges in district court for procedural reasons.

Because of the alleged victim's age, O'Brien said, a judge will need to determine whether she is competent to testify in the case.

O'Brien said competency means the child must "understand the difference between true and false and be able to prove to the court's satisfaction that they will be truthful." He said even if the child is allowed to testify, the defense may dispute that testimony.

While those issues can be resolved in magistrate court, O'Brien said, it would likely be appealed to the district court anyway, regardless of the magistrate judge's decision.

According to the arrest warrant, the young girl's mother, Casey Emery, contacted Aztec police officers on Oct. 23.

Emery told police her 4-year-old daughter made statements to family members indicating she had tongue-kissed her father, Battaglia, and had sexual contact with him.

Emery further told police her daughter had recently tried kissing her uncle and her little sister on the mouth.

The girl later told investigators she kissed her father on his genitals, and he did the same to her, the warrant states. She said none of this occurred when other people were present, according to the warrant. Attorney Arlon Stoker of the Stoker Law Firm is representing Battaglia. He said his client "adamantly denies" any of what allegedly took place.

Stoker said he believes Emery, who divorced Battaglia in February, encouraged her daughter to make the claims as an act of revenge.

"We believe that this was taken up by his ex-wife, who laid all of this stuff out on the lawn," he said.

Emery denied that claim in an interview with The Daily Times.

She said while Battaglia was abusive to her during their relationship, they were not fighting when her daughter said she was molested.

According to court records, Battaglia was found guilty in August 2010 of battery against a household member.

Emery said in the interview that her daughter had been lashing out before she told her about the alleged abuse.

"She was throwing fits," Emery said. "She was crying like a 2-year-old. She started reverting really bad."

Emery said her daughter is in counseling and now recovering.

She said she would like Battaglia to receive a maximum sentence if convicted.

"She is more grown-up than a 4-year-old should have to be, because of him," she said.

Battaglia faces up to 24 years in prison if convicted of both offenses.