Dominique Servant and Joey Ruffin face first-degree murder charges in the death of her 8-year-old son in Round Lake Beach, Illinois, amid allegations of long-term abuse.
Incident Overview
The boy, identified as Markell Pierce, was found unresponsive on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the family’s home on Cedar Lake Road; first responders noted bruising and malnourishment before he was pronounced dead at a hospital. Prosecutors allege Servant and Ruffin beat him with belts, deprived him of food—including placing him on a liquid diet from February 4—and forced him to hold weights overhead as punishment in the days prior. An autopsy confirmed long-term physical abuse and malnourishment, with abuse reportedly spanning at least 20 months and supported by video evidence.
Court Proceedings
During initial hearings on Sunday and Monday, a judge described the acts as “heinous” and ordered both held without bond in Lake County Jail; their next court date is March 3. Servant reportedly admitted seeing Ruffin punch the boy the previous day.
Family Impact
A 10-year-old sibling showed similar abuse signs and was hospitalized, while a 3-year-old was removed to state custody unharmed. Round Lake Beach Police Chief Ryan Rodriguez called the case “shaken us to our core,” urging reports of suspected abuse. Servant’s family expressed shock, claiming unawareness despite noticing the boy’s small size at Thanksgiving.
