A 32-year-old woman from Florida, Johnisha Cole, has been apprehended and charged with the murder of her four-month-old infant. The arrest was made by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office on Friday, following an extensive investigation into the infant’s death. The initial call to Cole’s residence was made in September, following reports of an infant choking and subsequently losing consciousness. The infant was rushed to the hospital but was later pronounced dead.
The preliminary investigation into the infant’s injuries, described by the police as “cruel,” led the medical examiner to rule the death as a homicide. The detectives assigned to the case noted that Cole was unable to provide any explanation for the injuries observed on the infant. These injuries included fractures to the femur and multiple ribs, extensive bruising, and severe abdominal bloating. The medical examiner identified the cause of death as abusive head trauma.
The investigation further involved a thorough examination of Cole’s phone and internet history, which revealed alarming findings. Cole had allegedly conducted online searches for queries such as “How long do you have to make a police report?” and “How to sign away parental rights?” Additionally, she had reportedly sent text messages to others, suggesting that she wished for the infant’s death and admitting to shaking the baby.
Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno expressed his sorrow over the case, stating, “This case is cruel, and this infant endured deadly abuse from its mother her entire life. My heart breaks for this child, but my detectives dedicated themselves to bringing her justice by digging for evidence and making an arrest. I know my detectives will continue to work with the State Attorney’s Office to secure a conviction.”
Cole has been charged with manslaughter and aggravated child abuse. She is currently being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court on January 13.