(KNZA)--A Hiawatha woman has pleaded not guilty to charges in connection with the March beating death of a 4-year-old boy.
28-year-old Janice Summerford entered the plea Monday in Brown County District Court to charges of first-degree murder, abuse of a child, obstructing apprehension or prosecution and three counts of interference with law enforcement.
A jury trial was set to start January 21st.
Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill filed an amended complaint against Summerford last month prior to her preliminary hearing charging her with the six felony counts. She had originally been charged with three felony counts—including aiding and abetting murder in the 2nd degree.
The child’s father, Lee Davis IV, of Hiawatha, is currently behind bars serving a nearly 20-year prison sentence after being convicted on an amended charge of second-degree murder and felony child abuse.
Authorities say Summerford was Davis’ live-in girlfriend and was the child’s primary caregiver.
During her preliminary hearing, Davis testified Summerford was responsible for his son’s death.
She was arrested in late April following an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff’s Department.
Summerford remains in the Brown County Jail on one million dollars bond.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Two file to challenge local legislator
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
Support sought for fire ravaged family
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
LATEST STORIES
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Tuition increase by KU, others in state
KS grad requirements updated after two decades.
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Potts first to file for Sheriff's seat in Atchison Co
Senator Slama won't endorse candidate in legislative race
Local author brings "Broken and Chained" to Falls City Saturday