West chester couple faces charges for child neglect

WEST CHESTER, PA — Leticia Cox, 59, and Mark Cox Sr., 59, have been arrested for neglecting to provide medical care to their 16-year-old son, according to law enforcement officials. The couple faces several charges after a preliminary hearing, where Judge Lieberman ordered the case to proceed to the Court of Common Pleas.

Leticia Cox is charged with aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children, recklessly endangering another person, and tampering with evidence. Mark Cox Sr. faces charges of endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering another person.

On Monday, April 15, a report was made to ChildLine noting the child’s severe malnourishment and dental issues. The boy was brought to a healthcare office, where he was found to weigh approximately 74.8 pounds and appeared visibly emaciated.

Following the visit, authorities urged the couple to seek immediate medical attention for the child. On Tuesday, April 16, Mark Cox Sr. took the boy to Chester County Hospital, where he was later admitted to Nemours Children’s Hospital. Medical staff classified his condition as a near fatality.

Investigations revealed that although the child was covered by medical insurance, there was no record of him seeing a doctor or dentist before April 15. Both parents were aware of his declining health but did not pursue medical treatment.

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