Mum 'dropped the ball' after teen son found dead weighing just 2 stone
14.02.2024 - 09:49
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
A mum is facing serious charges after her 14-year-old son was found dead, weighing just two stone. Talia Nelson, 43, from Daytona Beach, Florida, is behind bars following the tragic death of her son, Zayke Smith-Nelson, according to The Mirror.
The police investigation revealed shocking details of alleged neglect and abuse leading to the boy's death. Nelson gave various excuses, including unfounded claims of rare medical conditions affecting her son.
She confessed to not seeking medical help for Zayke, admitting she had "dropped the ball" in caring for him. Nelson is accused of first-degree felony murder, aggravated manslaughter of a child, and aggravated child abuse.
The authorities were alerted on January 1 when they responded to a call about an unconscious person at Nelson's home. They found Zayke unresponsive, showing signs of severe malnutrition and extensive bedsores. Despite efforts to save him, the teenager tragically died at Halifax Health Medical Center.
Detectives found a room in a three-bedroom flat that was in a shocking state. The room had no furniture and smelled strongly of urine.
The floor was covered in dirty clothes and toys, with more clothes stuffed under the door. Bugs were crawling on the walls and floor throughout the flat.
A further investigation revealed a history of neglect and abuse. Medical records showed that Zayke hadn't received proper medical care for three years, even though he used to be healthy.
Worryingly, the teenager had scars that matched long-term physical abuse, including injuries that doctors said he couldn't have done to himself.
Documents seen by Daytona Beach News-Journal claim that between July 1, 2020, and January 1, 2024, Nelson "wilfully tortured or maliciously punished, or