5 adults charged with starving 7-year-old disabled boy to death in Fort Lauderdale

Five adults in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, have been charged with the starvation death of 7-year-old Deonte Atwell, who had disabilities requiring constant medical care. Deonte was discovered dead on Christmas night, weighing only 7 pounds, with evidence suggesting he had not received proper nutrition or medical attention for an extended period. Authorities found 264 unopened bottles of his feeding formula in the home, highlighting the neglect he faced. The individuals charged include Deonte's mother, Michelle Doe, his adult brother Tyreck Irvin, and caregiver Cassandre Lassegue, all facing charges of first-degree murder, manslaughter, and child neglect. The grandfather, James Graham, is charged with aggravated manslaughter and child neglect, while service owner Mirlande Moltimer faces charges of third-degree murder and Medicaid fraud.

This heartbreaking case has prompted the Florida Department of Children and Families to investigate its prior interactions with the family and assess whether proper actions were taken. Detective Jacqueline Sanchez emphasized the profound sadness of Deonte's suffering, stating that he endured pain inflicted by those meant to care for him. The arrests followed an eight-month investigation, raising critical questions about child welfare and protection in the community.