Round Lake Beach, Illinois – An investigation into the death of an 8-year-old boy has led to murder charges against two adults, authorities said.
According to the Lake County Major Crime Task Force and the Round Lake Beach Police Department, officers were dispatched around 2:05 p.m. Thursday to a residence in the 1900 block of Cedar Lake Road for a report of an unresponsive child. Police and firefighters immediately initiated CPR before paramedics transported the child to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
First responders reportedly observed the child appeared malnourished and had visible bruising. Based on the suspicious circumstances, Round Lake Beach police requested assistance from the Lake County Major Crime Task Force.
Investigators later determined the child had allegedly been subjected to long-term neglect, physical abuse and mental abuse, authorities said. The child’s mother and her boyfriend were taken into custody Thursday night.
The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office approved charges against Joey L. Ruffin, 38, the victim’s mother’s boyfriend, including two counts of first-degree murder and one count of child endangerment causing death. Dominique Servant, 33, the victim’s mother, faces the same charges, officials said.
A 7-year-old sibling was interviewed at the Lake County Children’s Advocacy Center and was later admitted to a hospital due to reported signs of abuse and malnourishment, according to authorities.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy Thursday night. While final results are pending, preliminary findings reportedly indicate injuries consistent with long-term malnourishment and physical abuse, aligning with evidence found at the scene.
Both defendants are scheduled to appear in court Friday morning. Prosecutors intend to file a petition seeking to keep them in custody while awaiting trial.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case may be of particular concern to parents, caregivers and families across Lake County due to the age of the victim and involvement of a sibling.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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