Today (Mar 31), Kathleen EDWARDS, (35) was arrested on one count of Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child, (F1) in connection to the June 27, 2020, drowning incident resulting in the death of her 18 month-old son, Gregory Edwards Jr. on July 2, 2020.

 

After a months long extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child's death, the Brevard County Sheriff's Office presented their findings for review. Additional investigation directed by our office, along with statements from witnesses, reports from the Department of Children and Families, and physical evidence collected at the family home, resulted in a decision to proceed with criminal prosecution.

 

In a statement State Attorney Phil Archer said, "The death of child is a devastating event and carries with it an emotional burden unlike any other. As a society, we understand that sense of loss, but we also charge law enforcement with the duty to determine if any abuse or neglect contributed to the death."

 

Archer went on to say, "The decision to prosecute is always difficult, but the evidence in this case overwhelmingly revealed that this tragedy was entirely preventable. The identified circumstances that contributed to Gregory's death, also demanded that we seek court ordered intervention on behalf of Ms. Edwards, and her surviving minor daughter."

 

EDWARDS voluntarily surrendered to Volusia County Deputies after a warrant was issued for her arrest. EDWARDS is expected to post bond of $25,000 at the Volusia County Jail. No trial date has been set in this case. Please consult the Brevard Clerk of Courts website for updates on future court appearances by this defendant.