LOS ANGELES (KNX) — A 31-year-old man was found guilty in the 2015 murder of his girlfriend’s 2-year-old son.
Ronald Salmond’s conviction came after the jurors deliberated for hours. He was found guilty of second-degree murder and child assault in the death of baby Elijah; however, he was acquitted of first-degree murder, according to City News Service.
In 2015, Salmond was watching Elijah and his 4-year-old sister while the mother was out of the house.
A 911 call was made by Salmond after “the boy was choking and not breathing”, according to ABC 7. The coroner revealed in an autopsy that the baby had “multiple traumatic injuries.” In 2017, Salmond was arrested.
In his closing argument, Deputy District Attorney Jon Hatami told jurors Salmond beat the 2 year old to death because he was angry he had to watch the kids.
"There is only one reason why Elijah isn't here ... and that reason is sitting right over there ..." the prosecutor remarked as he motioned to Salmond. "This is not from a fall. This is not an accident. This child was beaten from head to toe."
Angela Cheung, the defense attorney, argued the prosecution did not meet its “burden” in proving Salmond killed the toddler.
Salmond could face up to 5- years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 28.
City News Service contributed to this story.
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