MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Memphis police have upgraded charges against a father whose 3-year-old son died of injuries left unattended for hours.
Jamie Jones, 25, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Child Abuse and Aggravated Child Neglect or Endangerment. Police later upgraded charges to First Degree Murder in Perpetration of Aggravated Child Abuse and First Degree Murder in Perpetration of Aggravated Child Neglect or Endangerment.
Jones brought his son to Le Bonheur Children's Hospital on Monday, January 14 after he said he found the boy at the bottom of the stairs unresponsive. The child, who had trauma to his head and body, was pronounced dead a short time later.
Doctors told police the child's injuries were not consistent with those from a fall like the father described, and some injuries appeared to be several hours old. Jones admitted the injuries occurred while the child was in his care, and he did not seek immediate help. Instead, he eventually called his wife and took the child to the emergency room.
At a Jan. 16 court appearance Jones was arraigned on the upgraded charges and is currently being held without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 22.
