ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A mother and her partner have been charged with second-degree murder in the death of a 2-year-old boy on the city’s northwest side.
Rochester Police say first responders found the boy, Isaiah Jones, injured and unresponsive at a housing complex on Dewey Avenue on Sunday, May 10, and he died in the hospital eight days later. The Monroe County Medical Examiner ruled the boy’s death a homicide from non-accidental injuries to his head and body.
RPD says the arrests come after a months-long investigation. Police say ambulance and fire personnel found the boy while responding to an unrelated call and began first aid. He was taken to Rochester General Hospital, where staff reportedly observed multiple bruises, bite marks, and other “concerning injuries.” Despite extensive medical procedures, Isaiah died on May 18.
Police say Isaiah was being cared for by his mother, 25-year-old India Duncan, and her partner, 30-year-old Joshua Velez. According to a criminal complaint, the couple physically abused Isaiah, causing injuries throughout his body, including bleeding to his brain and bite marks. The complaint also alleges that the couple delayed getting Isaiah medical treatment.
U.S. Marshals found and arrested Duncan and Velez on Tuesday afternoon. Both were arraigned in Rochester City Court on Wednesday morning and are being held without bail. Police say that, in addition to murder, the couple may face multiple additional charges relating to the abuse allegations.
RPD’s Special Victims Unit, Monroe County Child Protective Services, and the Monroe County District
Attorney’s Office were all involved with the investigation. RPD says Duncan and Velez lived together in the complex and is not certain at this time whether Joshua Velez is the biological father at this time. Check back for any updates.
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