Statement

Statement In Response to the Death of a Child In Ward 3

I am terribly saddened to learn of the passing of DeAndre Pettus, a 5-year-old child, in Ward 3 on Sunday. My heart goes out to his family, as well as the Murch Elementary School community during this difficult time. At this time, we still do not know all the details of what led to this horrific tragedy. The Metropolitan Police Department made an arrest on the preliminary charge of first-degree cruelty to children, those charges were filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the defendant appeared in D.C. Superior Court on Monday afternoon. Prosecutors await autopsy results, and the investigation is ongoing. The loss is heartbreaking and sadly follows the death in Ward 3 just the week prior of 1-year-old Journee Moore of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, which is being investigated as a homicide. These tragedies are reminders that laying a forceful hand on a child is never acceptable. They also underscore the imperative for the city to provide adequate services to our families with the greatest needs, and clearly there is more we need to do. The Child and Family Services Agency takes reports of child abuse and neglect 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To report suspected child abuse in DC, please call (202) 671-SAFE or (202) 671-7233. This hotline is the gateway to protection and help for child victims and those at risk up to age 18.

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