Tyshael Elise Martin, 34, is set to stay in custody following her court appearance on Monday. Charges have been filed against her, including first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, and child neglect, as reported by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
Martin faces allegations of assaulting 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions and instructing her dog to attack her.
On June 17, Jamaria was discovered unresponsive at the residence on Harbor Oaks Drive that she shared with Martin. Emergency responders found several abrasions, bruises, burns, and what appeared to be bite marks on the child. The initial conclusions from the Medical Examiner suggested that the injuries aligned with signs of physical abuse.
Surveillance footage reportedly captures Martin instructing the family’s 103-pound rottweiler to assault Jamaria on June 15, all while gripping the dog’s leash. The video allegedly depicts Martin kicking the unresponsive girl and pulling her almost lifeless form across the ground, persistently hitting and shaking her. Authorities reported that Martin was overheard stating, “I’m about to kill her.”
The additional inquiry uncovered that Jamaria’s typical disciplinary measures comprised wall sits, running in place with arms elevated, and being struck with different items.
An autopsy revealed that Jamaria’s death was due to complications arising from multiple blunt-force injuries and thermal damage to her right foot. The circumstances surrounding her death have been classified as a homicide.
Lo Juan Sessions, 26, the father of Jamaria, faces charges of aggravated manslaughter related to the tragic death of his daughter.
Martin remains in custody with no possibility of bail.