Another Family Member Arrested in Connection with Starvation Death of 7-Year-Old Boy
Jeremy Graham, the uncle of Deonte Atwell, was arrested on Tuesday on charges of aggravated manslaughter of a child, neglect of a child, and failure to report child abuse.
Background of the Case
Deonte Atwell was found dead on Christmas Day last year, weighing just seven pounds. He was only 7 years old at the time of his death. According to authorities, Atwell may have suffered for months before his death, and it appeared that he may have been dead “for quite some time”.
Circumstances Surrounding Atwell’s Death
Atwell was diagnosed with thoracic spina bifida and hydrocephalus, and required around-the-clock skilled nursing care. However, family members and two home health care employees appeared to have stopped providing him with necessary services, resulting in his death. Prosecutors said Atwell endured prolonged starvation and was horribly malnourished and neglected, with bones poking through his skin.
Previous Arrests
Five other people have been arrested in connection with Atwell’s death, including his mother, Michelle Doe, brother, Tyreck Irvin, and grandfather, James Graham. The owner of the home health provider, Mirlande Moltimer Ameda, and the nurse assigned to care for Atwell, Cassandre Lassegue, are also charged in his death.
Latest Arrest
Graham was booked into a Broward jail and his bond was set at $121,000 on the three charges. Authorities believe that Atwell’s family members and caregivers failed to provide him with the necessary care, leading to his tragic death.
Conclusion
The case of Deonte Atwell’s death is a heartbreaking example of the devastating consequences of neglect and abuse. The arrest of Jeremy Graham, along with the previous arrests of other family members and caregivers, serves as a reminder of the importance of holding accountable those who fail to provide proper care and attention to vulnerable individuals.
FAQs
Q: How old was Deonte Atwell when he died?
A: Deonte Atwell was 7 years old when he died.
Q: What were the causes of Deonte Atwell’s death?
A: Atwell’s death was caused by prolonged starvation and neglect, with authorities believing that he may have suffered for months before his death.
Q: How many people have been arrested in connection with Deonte Atwell’s death?
A: Six people have been arrested in connection with Atwell’s death, including his mother, brother, grandfather, and three caregivers.
Q: What was the bond set for Jeremy Graham?
A: Jeremy Graham’s bond was set at $121,000 on the three charges against him.
