Homeless man accused of capital murder and rape in 5-year-old Kansas girl’s death.
Man Charged in Rape and Killing of 5-Year-Old Kansas Girl
In a tragic incident that unfolded in a gas station parking lot, a 25-year-old homeless man has been charged with the rape and murder of a 5-year-old girl in Kansas. Despite the efforts of firefighters to save her life, Zoey Felix tragically passed away.
Mickel Cherry, the accused, is facing charges of capital murder, first-degree murder, and rape. Prosecutors may seek the death penalty in this case. Cherry is currently in jail in Topeka on a $2 million bond, and his next court appearance is yet to be determined.
Shawnee County District Attorney Michael Kagay stated that a decision on seeking the death penalty will be made after a preliminary hearing to determine if Cherry will stand trial. This is a standard procedure in capital cases.
Related Stories
Mark Manna, from the Kansas Death Penalty Defense Unit, confirmed that his office would represent Cherry but declined to comment further. Cherry’s family has not responded to messages.
While authorities have not released details about the cause of Zoey’s death, former neighbors believe that she, her father, and Cherry had been living in a wooded area near the gas station. They speculate that she was carried from the wooded lot to the gas station, but the police have not confirmed these details.
Kagay revealed in a news release that Topeka police responded to a gas station where fire crews were attempting to save Zoey’s life. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead later. A medical examination at the hospital revealed injuries consistent with sexual assault.
“I think the investigation into the murder and rape of this 5-year-old girl is fairly complete,” Kagay stated during a press conference.
When asked about the possibility of charging other individuals, Kagay said, “I’m willing to consider any actionable investigations brought to me.” However, he added that he is not aware of any other ongoing investigations at the moment.
Timothy Phelps, deputy director of the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, confirmed that Cherry used to live at the same address as Zoey. However, at the time of his arrest, Cherry was homeless.
Cherry has no criminal record in Kansas, but he does have a misdemeanor criminal trespass conviction in Amarillo, Texas.
Neighbors had raised concerns about Zoey’s family home lacking electricity and had contacted the police and child welfare services.
“She just had a good spirit to her. Honestly, very outgoing, smart. She was curious about everything. She’d ask you a 1,001 questions, and she demanded answers for those too,” said Shaniqua Bradley, a neighbor.
According to the Topeka police, they made three visits to the home in September. The first visit was on September 5 for a welfare check due to the reported lack of electricity. Two domestic disturbance calls were made on September 19, within a little over an hour of each other. The details of these calls have not been disclosed.
City spokeswoman Gretchen Spiker stated that during the first call, officers confirmed the absence of electricity and were informed that the child was not staying there. The police met with the child, who appeared to be in “good spirits,” but still made a report to child welfare and property officials.
The city initially moved to condemn the house but halted the process when the utilities were restored. By that time, everyone except the mother had moved out, according to neighbors.
In the woods a few blocks away from the home, where fire crews tried to resuscitate Zoey, a tent and a tarp were set up. Zoey’s father worked at the gas station, and his coworker mentioned that he was taking time off. The company has not responded to inquiries from The Associated Press.
A makeshift memorial consisting of flowers, balloons, and toys was placed nearby.
How are child welfare agencies investigating any prior involvement with Zoey or her family?
Istrict attorney, expressed his condolences to Zoey’s family and stated, “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Zoey Felix during this incredibly difficult time. We will do everything in our power to seek justice for her and ensure that she receives the justice she deserves.”
The tragedy has shaken the local community, with many expressing their outrage and sadness over the incident. Vigils and memorials have been organized in honor of Zoey, with community members coming together to support her grieving family.
Child welfare agencies have also been involved in the case, investigating any potential prior involvement with Zoey or her family. The Kansas Department for Children and Families is conducting an internal review to determine if any follow-up actions were necessary.
This incident serves as a painful reminder of the vulnerability of children and the need for stronger measures to protect them. It raises important questions about the safety and well-being of homeless individuals, particularly those with a history of criminal behavior.
Efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future will require a collective response from law enforcement, social services, and community organizations. The focus should be on providing resources and support to vulnerable individuals while also taking steps to ensure the safety and protection of children.
As the community mourns the loss of young Zoey Felix, there is a call for justice to be served. The legal proceedings against Mickel Cherry will determine his guilt or innocence, and if found guilty, the appropriate punishment. The outcome of this case will have a significant impact on the community and the sense of safety and security for its residents.
In the midst of this heartbreaking tragedy, it is important to remember the importance of vigilance and accountability. The safety of our children should always be a top priority, and it is the responsibility of each and every one of us to create an environment where they can thrive and be protected.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
