Authorities have reported that a mother from Lake County, Florida, has been taken into custody for the alleged murder of her boyfriend’s 9-year-old daughter.
A woman named Tyshael Elise Martin, aged 34, was taken into custody by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest took place in Montverde, near her residence, on Wednesday evening after 6 p.m. Martin has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, and child neglect.
Emergency crews were called to Martin’s home in Orlando on June 17th after receiving a report that 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions was unresponsive, according to FOX 35.
Upon the arrival of emergency personnel, the child was discovered with multiple abrasions, bruises, burns, and potential bite marks, which led to the prompt response of sheriff’s deputies.
A press release stated that an investigation by the medical examiner revealed that the child’s injuries were indicative of physical abuse.
As part of the investigation conducted by the sheriff’s office, detectives were able to acquire video footage from the family’s security system.
According to reports, the videos revealed that on the night of June 15, Jamaria was attacked by the family’s 103-pound Rottweiler in a violent manner. Martin, who was holding the dog’s leash, is accused of instructing the dog to attack the child.
According to detectives, the video reportedly depicted Martin repeatedly kicking Jamaria while she remained motionless on the floor.
According to the video, Martin is seen dragging the girl’s body across the floor as she strikes and shakes her. Authorities reported that Martin allegedly made a threatening statement, indicating his intention to harm someone.
Investigators have revealed interviews, videos, and text messages that indicate Jamaria endured a range of punishments, including prolonged periods sitting against a wall, running in place with her hands raised, and being subjected to physical abuse such as being hit with objects, kicked, punched, and pinched, as reported by the station.
The child’s autopsy report was received by investigators on Tuesday. It revealed that Jamaria’s cause of death was due to multiple blunt injuries to her head, torso, and extremities, as well as an injury to her right foot. Authorities have determined that the cause of death was classified as a homicide.
Martin was processed and booked into the Lake County jail, where she was detained without bond.