SOUTH CAROLINA – A South Carolina couple faces homicide charges after their 4-year-old son was found dead and severely malnourished in September, with prosecutors describing the child as “basically skin and bones.”
Isaiah Dionne was found unresponsive on September 19 when his parents, Destiny Dionne and Joshua Latimer, called 911. Medical personnel arrived to find the child cold to the touch, authorities said.
Both parents have been arrested and charged with homicide by child abuse and unlawful conduct towards a child. Latimer, who had worked as a South Carolina state trooper since 2017, was terminated from his position following his arrest.
Prosecutor Micah Black painted a disturbing picture of the child’s condition and living situation during court proceedings. The boy had not seen a doctor in two years, despite another child in the home receiving regular medical care.
Investigators discovered that Isaiah slept on a blanket on the floor rather than in a bed. His bedroom curtains were stapled shut, and evidence suggested he had been locked in a closet. Authorities say the parents denied him water, forcing the child to drink from a toilet.
Neighbors reported that when they offered Isaiah food, he rapidly consumed adult-sized portions, suggesting chronic hunger and food deprivation. The disturbing details revealed a pattern of severe neglect and abuse.
A medical examiner is awaiting toxicology reports before determining the official cause of death. Another child found in the home is now in state custody and appeared healthy, raising questions about why Isaiah was singled out for such treatment.
Dionne filed a motion for bond reconsideration this week, which was denied by the court on Thursday. Both parents remain in custody as the investigation continues.
The case has shocked the local community and highlighted the importance of recognizing signs of child abuse and neglect. Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation or whether other charges may be forthcoming.
