NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. — The North Fort Myers man charged in connection with a two- year old's death now facing second-degree murder charges.
The child was transported to Golisano Children’s hospital on April 29th, where she then died on May 1st.
“A post mortem exam revealed clear signs of blunt force and sexual trauma, ” said Sheriff Carmine Marceno
Lee County sheriff's deputies say the child was sexually abused, suffering bruises, swelling, and other forms of trauma.
“This is pure evil it really is, ” said Sheriff Carmine Marceno.
The suspect, 25-year-old Nicholas Canfield remains jailed, and also faces charges of capital sexual battery and aggravated child abuse.
Neighbors who live on West Mariana avenue in Fort Myers are left with anger.
“These poor kids have no chance, ” said Raymond Peters.
Neighbor Raymond Peters, is a father to a 17-year-old girl.
He says deputies need to do more to protect our innocent children.
“I don’t care what laws they pass, they have to put these guys away for the rest of their lives, let them meditate inside a cell, ” said Raymond Peters.
The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida says preventative measures are vital, reminding parents to practice healthy communication.
“Talk to your child from the age they are young enough the understand that if anything happens to your body, and it wouldn’t even have to be sexual if someone physically harmed them you tell someone, you let someone know and it is okay to tell, ” said Dona Samborn.
Peters is an advocate for love, hoping no child will ever have to endure such trauma again.
“Love your child, show them that you love them...make them feel good at home,” said Raymond Peters.
Sheriffs say this is still an open investigation as they are now looking to signs of abuse in another child within the household.
