Father charged with murder, child cruelty in death of young son
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Columbus investigators have made an arrest in connection to the murder, child cruelty of a young boy.
Columbus Police officers responded to Piedmont Columbus Regional in reference to a report of suspected child abuse on July 27, 2022.
“Medical staff reported that Kentrell Leonard arrived at the hospital with multiple bruises and had difficulty breathing,” police said. “An examination showed the victim had multiple brain bleeds that were consistent with injuries sustained during “shaken baby” incidents.”
Adult and Youth Services arrived on scene to take lead on the investigation.
The victim’s father, Delonta Williams, was arrested and charged with Cruelty to Children 1st Degree. His initial court appearance was on July 28, 2022 and he subsequently bonded out of jail.
Kentrell died while receiving treatment at an Atlanta area hospital on August 9, 2022.
Adult & Youth Services investigators received the official autopsy results for the victim which indicated “Homicide” as the manner of death on November 14, 2023.
Investigators issued warrants for Williams’ arrest on November 16, 2023. He was arrested that same day and charged with Murder 2nd Degree and Cruelty to Children 2nd Degree. Williams was transported to the Muscogee County Jail without incident.
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