Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose announced today the mother and her live-in boyfriend have been charged in connection with the death of seven-year-old Michael Moore, Jr.
According to authorities, Christopher Spearman, 29, of Newark was charged with aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child; and the mother, Khadejrah Rawls, 28, also of Newark has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child.
The autopsy results have not yet been finalized by the New Jersey Regional Medical Examiner’s Office. The cause of death is still pending authorities said.
Today, the mother and her boyfriend were charged based on injuries sustained by the child.
According to authorities, at approximately 9:54 a.m. yesterday, Newark Police and medical personnel responded to the North Munn Avenue home on a report of a medical emergency.
The unresponsive child was transported to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 10:36 am yesterday morning.
Four other children, younger than Moore, and three pit bull puppies were also found in the home.
All have been removed from the home. The children are in the care of child protective services.
These are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.