Police Make Arrest in Homicide of 3-Year-Old
October 20, 2020
On Oct. 19, just after 7 p.m., the Tallahassee Police Department was contacted by a local hospital regarding the suspicious death of a small child.
The initial information provided to doctors indicated the toddler fell at home. However, the victim’s injuries and evidence at the scene, did not appear to be consistent with that version of events.
During the investigation, probable cause was developed to charge the victim’s caretaker in this case for hitting the child with an object, resulting in death.
This is an active investigation; updates will be provided as they become available. Tallahassee Police Investigators are asking anyone with information about the incident, who did not speak with an officer on scene, to please call 850-891-4200. They may also remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS.
Young children experience higher rates of maltreatment than older children, according to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If you see or suspect child abuse, say something. Report it by calling TPD at 850-891-4200, Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS or the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873.
Arrested: Te’Lea Jefferson, 23, on charges of murder and aggravated child abuse.
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