Jonathon Cheek and Sierra Zaitona, residents of Clinton Township, Michigan, have been indicted on charges of second-degree murder and child abuse following the tragic death of their 2-year-old son. The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office announced these charges on Wednesday, March 20.
Both individuals were remanded to Macomb County Circuit Court and are currently held in Macomb County Jail on a bond set at $1 million each. Their arraignment is scheduled for April 8.
The heartbreaking incident occurred on Thursday, March 16, 2023, when Sierra Zaitona allegedly found their son deceased in his crib. At the time, Jonathon Cheek was reportedly visiting his mother but returned home upon learning of his son’s passing. The medical examiner concluded that the child’s death was due to starvation.
During the bond hearing, Macomb County Assistant Prosecutor Molly Zappitell argued for a substantial bond, citing concerns about the couple’s potential flight risk. Zappitell also highlighted Zaitona’s actions, mentioning that she had the baby in Ohio to evade detection by Child Protective Services (CPS). Zappitell emphasized, “For the record, the child was healthy in foster care, and once it got into the care of these two individuals, it met its demise”.
The charges against Cheek and Zaitona are grave, with second-degree murder carrying a potential life sentence and second-degree child abuse carrying up to 10 years in prison. A probable cause conference is set for April 3, with the preliminary examination yet to be scheduled.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of thorough investigations and the legal repercussions for those who fail to protect children from harm. The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office has underscored the necessity of holding parents accountable when they betray their duty to safeguard and nurture their children.
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