A Michigan father, J. Cheek, has been sentenced to 24 to 50 years in prison for the starvation death of his 2-year-old son. The sentence follows Cheek’s plea of no contest to charges of second-degree murder and second-degree child abuse.
In exchange for avoiding a life sentence, prosecutors recommended a maximum 50-year sentence. Cheek will also serve up to 10 years for child abuse at the same time as the murder sentence.
The case started with a tragic 911 call on March 16, 2023, when Cheek and the boy’s mother, S. Zaitona, reported finding their son dead in his crib. An investigation revealed the child had died from starvation, which was caused by neglect from both parents.
The child had been in foster care but was recently returned to his parents before his death. Prosecutor M. Zappitell stated that the child was healthy while in foster care, but his condition worsened after being placed with his parents.
Cheek’s sentencing also brings attention to Zaitona, who faces the same charges. Her trial is set for April 1, 2025. There are concerns she may try to flee, as it’s suspected that she gave birth to the child in Ohio to avoid Child Protective Services CPS.
Prosecutor P. Lucido expressed sadness over the case, saying no sentence can bring back the child, but the hope is that the family can begin to heal.
The case highlights the importance of parental responsibility and the role of child welfare systems in protecting children. The mother’s trial will provide more details about the case and its impact on child safety.