Mother accused in death of 9-day-old daughter denied bond, father’s hearing ‘withdrawn’
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — The mother accused in the death of her 9-day-old daughter was denied bond on Tuesday.
Hilary Johnson Jr., 23, and Z’ibreyea Parker, 21, are charged with second-degree murder and felony child abuse.
The couple brought their 9-day-old infant on May 4 into Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (CHKD) unresponsive and “cold to the touch.”
Johnson Jr. did not appear in court, as his bond hearing was withdrawn by his attorney J.D. Garrett.
Parker appeared in court and was seen shaking her head while Norfolk Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Michelle Newkirk described the graphic injuries of the baby, I’ijayah Johnson.
Newkirk shared details from the autopsy, which revealed I’ijayah had burns on both feet, a bruise on her left eye, five broken ribs, a broken clavicle and blunt force trauma to the head. The injuries are consistent with “shaken baby syndrome.”
Court documents reveal extent of injuries to murdered 9-day-old
Newkirk presented graphic photos of the infant to Norfolk Juvenile and Domestic Judge Hon. Robert Smith III. Smith asked if there was an explanation for the burns and if there was a visible handprint on the infant’s back.
Parker claimed the baby fell out of the stroller and hit her head while Johnson Jr. was jogging. Court documents obtained by 10 On Your Side show that Parker admitted she was aware of the injuries. Parker claimed she was treating them with witch hazel because she “did not think the injuries were all that serious.”
The Commonwealth also stated that, while at the hospital, parents Johnson Jr. and Parker “laughed” and couldn’t remember the child’s birthday. Newkirk stated that they “did not appear upset or worried.”
Defense attorney Trevor Robinson said Parker moved to this area one year ago and had plans to move back to Maryland, where her family lives. Parker has no previous record.
After looking at the photos, Smith said the pictures show “severe and numerous” injuries as well as a “need for medical treatment.”
Smith denied Parker’s bond. Parker and Johnson will have a preliminary hearing at 9:30 a.m. July 18.
‘I told them I fear for her life’: Grandfather of murdered infant says he warned hospital staff
The infant’s grandfather, Hilary Johnson Sr., said he shared his concerns for the baby while at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Johnson Sr. said he pleaded with staff because he was afraid about the couple’s mental and homeless status.
Johnson Sr. has started a GoFundMe to help with his granddaughter’s funeral expenses.
Check with WAVY.com for more updates.
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