Washington, D.C. — A Washington, D.C., woman is facing serious criminal charges after authorities say one of her 13-month-old twins died and the surviving child was found severely malnourished following days of alleged neglect inside an apartment.
The case has shocked the community as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death.
Toddler Found Dead Inside Apartment
According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, officers responded to a residence on January 18 where they discovered 13-month-old Mazouri Jones.
Authorities said the child was found “deceased and decomposing” inside the apartment. The girl’s twin brother was also discovered alive but in critical condition.
According to prosecutors, the surviving child was “dehydrated and malnourished” when emergency responders arrived.
The horrifying discovery immediately launched a criminal investigation into the children’s living conditions and care.
Investigation Leads to Murder Charge
Authorities announced that 25-year-old Valencia Duke, the children’s mother, was arrested on June 3.
She has been charged with first-degree felony murder and two counts of first-degree cruelty to children, according to court records and statements released by prosecutors.
An autopsy later determined that Mazouri died from dehydration and malnutrition due to neglect, investigators said.
Officials allege Duke left the twins alone inside the residence between January 14 and January 18. It remains unclear who initially alerted authorities to the emergency that led officers to the apartment.
Disturbing Details Alleged in Court Documents
Court records describe disturbing conditions inside the residence.
According to reports, investigators allege Duke intentionally left the twins inside a playpen for several days without adequate food, water or heat during a period of unusually cold winter weather.
Photographs included in charging documents reportedly showed clutter, discarded food containers and household items scattered throughout the apartment.
Authorities also described severe neglect affecting the surviving child.
According to FOX 5, the twin brother was so hungry when first responders arrived that he allegedly attempted to eat a paramedic’s stethoscope.
The report stated he appeared to mistake the medical equipment for food.
Mother Allegedly Confessed to Leaving Children Alone
Duke allegedly admitted to investigators that she left the children alone in the apartment for four days. Authorities claim the twins were left without access to food or water during that period.
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The allegations became a central part of the criminal case now moving through the court system. At this stage, prosecutors maintain that the evidence supports the charges filed against Duke.
Judge Orders Woman Held Without Bond
Following her arrest, a judge reportedly ordered Duke to remain in custody without bond while the case proceeds. It remains unclear whether she has entered a plea to the charges.
Court records indicate the criminal proceedings are still in the early stages.
Authorities have not released additional information regarding the condition of the surviving child or his current placement.
The tragic case has renewed discussions about child welfare, neglect investigations and the importance of reporting concerns when children may be in danger.
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