Norfolk, VA – A Virginia couple has been sentenced for the death of their nine-day-old daughter, I’ijayah. Hilary Darnell Johnson II, 24, received a 19-year prison sentence for second-degree murder. Z’ibreyea Shantel Parker, 22, was sentenced to 10 years for child abuse.
The child was pronounced “cold to the touch” when brought to a local hospital on May 4. The couple claimed I’ijayah fell from her stroller two days earlier.
Investigations revealed a history of neglect. Hospital staff observed signs of abuse including burns and bruises on the child’s body. An autopsy confirmed the child died from blunt trauma and burns.
Prosecutors noted their inability to determine which parent inflicted the fatal injuries. Both parents denied causing harm to I’ijayah.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the case. The court proceedings followed a plea deal in which charges were reduced for both parents.