Milan Ferdinand
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is yet to make an arrest in the death of four-year-old Milan Ferdinand who passed away on Friday, October 9, days after he went into a coma while in his father and step-mother’s care.
But Police Press Officer Zachary Hippolyte told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) that the police force is committed to ensuring that a thorough investigation is conducted into this recent incident.
“We are also sensitive to the family and the public, who are currently outraged and disheartened by this incident. However, it is incumbent on the police that the investigation, like any other investigation, is handled professionally knowing that this case may appear before the court,” Hippolyte said.
He continued: “We are given the assurance that progress is being made. We ask for patience and understanding from the public as the police goes through the necessary processes required by law.”
A post-mortem examination revealed that Milan died as a result of severe brain damage and head injury due to blunt force trauma. Also noted were multiple blunt force traumas all over the body.
The child’s mother has admitted to seeing marks about her child’s body, which led to the conclusion that he was being physically abused by someone at home.
The woman claims she reported the matter to the Human Services Department who did nothing to assist the child. But the department has since responded saying that only one report was made.
Director Elizabeth Lewis said her department acted on that report. She said Milan was examined by a medical doctor, but at that time the issue was “not deemed serious.”
Police sources have confirmed that the child’s father and stepmother – a recently married couple – were questioned by officials in connection with allegations of abuse.
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