The tragic death of 7-year-old Deonte Atwell on Christmas Day last year has taken a new turn. Jeremy Graham, 31, was arrested by Fort Lauderdale police on Dec. 17. He is now facing charges of aggravated manslaughter of a child, neglect, and failure to report child abuse.
Police haven’t shared many details about Graham’s involvement, but they said evidence gathered during their investigation led to his arrest. This shocking case continues to raise questions about the care Deonte received before his death... Continue reading here ▶
Who Was Deonte Atwell?
Deonte was born in 2016 with serious health conditions, including thoracic spina bifida and hydrocephalus. These conditions made it hard for him to live a normal life.
He needed a breathing tube, a feeding tube, and 24/7 care from skilled nurses. Despite his struggles, he was failed by those who should have protected him.
When Deonte died, authorities found him severely malnourished. Autopsy results revealed that his bones were protruding through his skin.
Investigators also discovered 264 unopened bottles of feeding formula in the home. This heartbreaking neglect happened as part of what police believe was a scheme to defraud Medicaid.
Who Else Is Charged?
Jeremy Graham isn’t the only person facing charges. In total, six people connected to Deonte’s care have been arrested.
- Michelle Doe (Deonte’s mother, 37) and Tyreck Irvin (his brother, 21) face charges including first-degree murder and child neglect.
- James Graham (Deonte’s 70-year-old grandfather) is also charged.
- Mirlande Moltimer Ameda, the owner of Samaritan Home Care Provider, Inc., and Cassandre Lassegue, the nurse assigned to care for Deonte, have also been arrested.
Both Doe and Ameda have pleaded not guilty, but the legal status of the other suspects remains unclear.
Deonte’s death is a sad reminder of how vulnerable children can fall through the cracks. Authorities believe neglect from family members and healthcare workers led to this tragic outcome. They described it as aggravated abuse that could have been prevented.
What Can You Do to Help?
If you ever suspect a child is being abused or neglected, speak up. Call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child (1-800-422-4453) or visit Childhelp.org. The hotline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Deonte’s story is heartbreaking, but it’s also a wake-up call for everyone. Let’s work together to protect children and make sure no child has to suffer like this again.
