A Michigan mother and father will face charges in connection with allegedly starving their two-year-old biological son to death.
According to court documents, on Thursday, March 16, 2023, Sierra Pearl Zaitona found her son dead in his crib.
The child’s father, Jonathan Matthew Cheek, was at his mother’s house visiting when the boy was found dead.
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After the death, he returned to his home. The medical examiner determined the cause of death was fatal starvation.
Jonathon Matthew Cheek, 26 years old, and Sierra Pearl Zaitona, 28 years old, were charged with second degree murder (Life Felony), and Child Abuse Second Degree (10 Year Felony.) Both were bound over to Macomb County Circuit Court by Clinton Twp. 41B District Court Judge Jacob Femminineo, Jr.
The parents’ arraignment is scheduled for Monday, April 8, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. in front of Macomb County Circuit Court Judge Edward Servitto.
“When parents betray the sacred trust to nurture and protect, we must ensure that the scales of justice tip in favor of accountability,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido.
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