Nationwide — Latoya Washington, a 37-year-old African American mother from Southfield, Michigan, has been charged with manslaughter after her 4-year-old son died following untreated seizure episodes. Police say the child’s condition worsened after he was not given prescribed medication meant to control his seizures.
On Jan. 25, 2025, police and emergency crews rushed to the French Quarter Apartments in Southfield after a report of a child not breathing. When they arrived, they found 4-year-old Curtis unconscious and unresponsive inside the apartment.
Medics started life-saving measures right away before rushing him to a nearby hospital. Doctors continued treatment there, but the child was later pronounced dead, according to the Detroit News.
Investigators said Curtis had already experienced serious seizure activity two days earlier. He was taken to the hospital at that time, where medical staff stabilized him and prescribed medication to help prevent future episodes. Authorities also said he was discharged after Washington removed him from care against medical advice once his condition seemed to improve.
Police allege that after returning home, Curtis did not receive the seizure and rescue medications prescribed by doctors. They said he suffered more seizure episodes on Jan. 24 and again on Jan. 25, 2025, leading up to the medical emergency that ended his life.
Following the investigation, authorities charged Washington with manslaughter. She later appeared in 46th District Court in Southfield for arraignment. A magistrate set bond at $20,000 and ordered her to wear a GPS tether if released.
Court records show Washington posted bond and was released from custody. As of Friday, no attorney was listed for her. If convicted, she faces up to 15 years in prison.
Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said the case highlights the responsibility caregivers have to follow medical instructions and respond quickly when a child’s health worsens, noting that young children depend entirely on adults for their care.