A case of child abuse and neglect has led to the arrest of three family members following the death of a 4-year-old boy on January 19.
Officers responded to The Regency Apartments in the 9800 block of Shallow Creek Loop near Manassas at 7:36 p.m. January 19, to investigate reports of an unconscious child. When emergency responders arrived, they found the young victim, later identified as a 4-year-old boy, unresponsive.
Fire and Rescue personnel administered CPR before transporting the child to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
As detectives delved into the investigation, they discovered that the boy and his 5-year-old sister had endured long-term abuse and neglect at the hands of three family members, police said. These individuals were the primary caretakers of the children.
The investigation revealed the victim had been regularly bound with plastic wrap and packing tape, and he showed signs of severe malnutrition and dehydration at the time of his autopsy. Both children had been routinely deprived of food and water.
On January 29, detectives obtained arrest warrants for the three family members responsible for the children’s care. The arrested individuals have been charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect. They are being held without bond.
The arrested individuals are:
- Rebecca Ann Romero, 53 – Charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect.
- Shanyah Elizabeth Dilda, 22 – Charged with aggravated murder, felony murder, and felony child abuse and neglect.
- Kemmilyn Anita Wade, 18 – Charged with felony murder and felony child abuse and neglect.
The 5-year-old sister, along with two other children aged 12 and 14 who lived in the apartment, has been placed into the custody of Child Protective Services for their safety and well-being.
Due to the sensitive nature of the case and the age of the deceased, law enforcement has not released the victim’s identity. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the remaining children are safe and adequately cared for.
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Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.Â
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The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.