Neglect and Deceit: Family Members and Healthcare Workers Arrested in Death of 7-Year-Old Boy with Spina Bifida
September 12, 2024
FLORIDA: A 7-year-old boy with spina bifida, Deonte Atwell, died from starvation and neglect in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The tragic incident has led to the arrest of five suspects, including Deonte's mother, brother, grandfather, and two healthcare workers. This heart-wrenching case exposes the dark underbelly of neglect, deceit, and systemic failure.
Deonte was born with thoracic spina bifida and hydrocephalus, requiring constant medical attention, breathing and feeding tubes, and round-the-clock skilled nursing care. Despite his vulnerable condition, those responsible for his care failed him miserably. Investigators found 264 unopened bottles of feeding formula in the home, a stark testament to the neglect Deonte suffered.
The nurse assigned to his case, Cassandre Lassegue, continued to file paperwork as if she was visiting, despite not showing up to provide care. This blatant deceit allowed the neglect to continue unchecked. The lack of oversight and accountability enabled the suspects to perpetuate their deceit, ultimately leading to Deonte's tragic death.
The five suspects face charges ranging from first-degree murder to Medicaid fraud. If convicted, they will face severe consequences for their actions. However, for Deonte's loved ones, no punishment can bring back the precious life lost due to neglect and deceit.
