A California teenager has been charged with murder and sexual assault concerning his 2-year-old cousin and foster brother.
This tragic situation has left friends and family heartbroken, especially during the recent court hearing. The child, named Jackson, was discovered unresponsive in his crib on Easter Sunday in San Jose.
Santa Clara District Attorney Jeff Rosen announced charges against the now 18-year-old suspect, including murder and child assault leading to death.
“This is a case of a 2-year-old who faced severe abuse and was brutally murdered,” Rosen stated, emphasizing the need for proper accountability.
Jackson passed away in the hospital a few days after being found, and the exact cause of death is still being investigated.
Authorities have indicated evidence suggests the suspect committed both sexual and physical abuse against his cousin shortly after being placed with the family by the county in February.
County spokesperson Peter Gallotta remarked that the Department of Family and Children Services would be looking into the matter and urged the California Department of Human Services to conduct its own investigation.
“The County is dedicated to thoroughly investigating this tragic event and will share findings publicly when possible and legally permissible,” Gallotta added in a statement.
Rosen also urged that the Department of Children’s Services needs to implement changes following several recent child deaths.
“This marks the third child under the care of the Department of Family and Children Services to be murdered in recent years,” Rosen noted. “We need immediate and effective change.”
Family members are struggling to comprehend the circumstances surrounding this horrific crime.
Evangeline Dominguez-Estrada expressed her disbelief, saying, “I can’t fathom what this sweet baby experienced. How could anyone hear him cry and continue to inflict harm instead of helping him?”
“He was just two years old and absolutely did not deserve this,” she added.
The suspect’s next court appearance is scheduled for May 21st. Rosen intends to try the suspect as an adult, despite the fact that the crime took place while he was a minor.
