Today (Jun 3), Circuit Judge Charles Crawford ruled that the State had met its burden in a Proof Evident/Presumption Great Hearing and denied a Motion for Bond filed on behalf of Erica DOTSON (28). Judge Crawford issued his decision after testimony by Brevard County Medical Examiner Dr. Sajid Qaiser concluded two split days of testimony that began on May 15, 2022.

 

DOTSON, and Joshua MANNS (25) are facing a possible death sentence after their indictment by the Grand Jury on July 28, 2021, charged with First-Degree Felony Murder (CF), Aggravated Child Abuse (F1), Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child (F1), and Child Abuse (F3) in connection to the death of 3-year old Nance Jameson, at their Lago Circle apartment in West Melbourne on June 11, 2021. 

 

The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide, stating the child had suffered multiple inflicted injuries over time that ultimately resulted in death. After a weeks-long investigation, West Melbourne Police discovered evidence that both MANNS and DOTSON physically abused the child, attempted to conceal the abuse, and neglected to seek immediate medical treatment for his injuries. 

 

In their announcement to seek the death penalty, prosecutors described the murder as "especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel" and was committed while the defendants were either engaged in, or were an accomplice to aggravated child abuse. They also cited provisions indicating that the couple had committed the capital felony on a person under 12, and stood in a "position of familial or custodial authority over the victim." 

 

This ruling means DOTSON will remain in custody without bond pending trial. The case is currently set for review on the September 14, 2022 trial docket.