WAUKEGAN, Ill. (AP) — Prosecutors have filed murder charges against the mother and brother of a 6-year-old boy who died after being placed in a cold shower as punishment for misbehavior.
Lake County State's Attorney Eric Rinehart said in a news release Wednesday that 38-year-old Jannie Perry of North Chicago and 20-year-old Jeremiah Perry were jointly indicted by a grand jury on multiple charges that also included aggravated battery of a child, dismembering a human body and concealment of a homicidal death.
The body of Damari Perry was found last month in an alley in Gary. His funeral was held Tuesday.
The grand jury found evidence that the murder was “exceptionally brutal and heinous” that would merit life sentences, if the adults are convicted, Rinehart’s office said.
“Damari’s final minutes warrant the sentencing enhancements that accompany such ‘brutal and heinous’ circumstances,” the prosecutor said. “The defendants’ stunning failure to seek medical attention demonstrates their intent to end Damari’s life. Transporting and burning the body as part of a cover up also warranted the additional serious charges we filed today.”
Jannie and Jeremiah Perry were scheduled to appear in court Feb. 7.
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