A Washington, D.C., woman has been charged with murder after authorities said one of her 13-month-old twins died from neglect while the other was found severely malnourished.
Mother Arrested
Police arrested 25-year-old Valencia Duke on June 3 in connection with the death of her daughter, Mazouri Jones.
She faces charges including first-degree felony murder and child cruelty.
Toddler Found Dead
According to investigators, officers responded to a residence on Jan. 18 and found Mazouri deceased inside the home.
An autopsy later determined the child died from dehydration and malnutrition caused by neglect.
Twin Brother Survived
Authorities said the girl’s twin brother was also found inside the residence suffering from severe dehydration and malnutrition.
He was taken for medical treatment and survived.
Allegations of Neglect
Prosecutors allege Duke left the children alone in the apartment for several days without adequate food, water, or care.
Court documents state the children were allegedly left unattended between Jan. 14 and Jan. 18.
Held Without Bond
Duke was arrested months after the investigation began and remains in custody.
A judge ordered her held without bond while the case proceeds through the court system.
