An appalling incident unfolded as a couple callously brought their lifeless nine-day-old daughter to the hospital and chuckled despite the tragic circumstances, as revealed in court.
Hilary Johnson II, 24, received a 19-year prison term on October 31, while Z’ibreyea S. Parker, 22, was sentenced to 10 years after admitting guilt earlier this year in connection to the death of their newborn baby, I’ijayah Johnson.
The distressing events occurred around midday on May 4, 2024, when Johnson and Parker arrived at the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters with I’ijayah, who was unresponsive and cold. They claimed she had fallen from her stroller two days earlier while Johnson was out for a run.
Medical staff quickly realized that I’ijayah’s injuries did not align with the parents’ story. The couple’s demeanor at the hospital was described as disturbing, with reports indicating they struggled to provide accurate information about their daughter and were seen laughing during the check-in process.
According to local reports, Parker downplayed the severity of I’ijayah’s injuries, stating they tried to treat her at home before seeking medical help due to her deteriorating condition.
Hospital records documented multiple signs of abuse on I’ijayah’s body, including severe burns on her feet, cuts on her head and face, and bruises on her back. A subsequent autopsy confirmed that the baby’s death resulted from blunt trauma to her head and torso, along with other internal and external injuries that were inconsistent with a fall.
In a significant legal development, Johnson pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, while Parker admitted to child abuse with serious injury. Prosecutors dropped some charges as part of a plea deal.
Following the sentencing, Attorney Ramin Fatehi emphasized the vulnerability of newborn victims like I’ijayah and the importance of seeking justice in such cases.
I’ijayah’s grandfather, Hilary Johnson Sr., had expressed concerns about the couple’s parenting abilities before the tragedy occurred, highlighting missed opportunities to prevent the heartbreaking outcome.
At the time of I’ijayah’s birth, Johnson and Parker, who had mental health issues, were living in challenging conditions under a highway. Despite offers of assistance, they declined support after I’ijayah’s hospital discharge.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Johnson Sr. lamented the drastic turn in his son and daughter-in-law’s behavior, hoping for a better life for his granddaughter that was tragically cut short.
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