A Michigan father, Cedric Diequell-Stevens Moore, has entered a plea deal with prosecutors after being accused of physically abusing his two young sons. The 38-year-old man was charged with child abuse in June, following allegations of severe mistreatment of his 9-year-old and 1-year-old sons.
The older child managed to escape from their home on South Edith Street in Pontiac after Moore had left the premises. The boy sought refuge in a nearby house, prompting the homeowner to alert the police. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office subsequently issued a press release detailing the incident.
Moore entered a no-contest plea to the child abuse charges last Friday. This type of plea allows a defendant to essentially concede that the prosecution’s evidence would likely lead to a conviction, without formally admitting guilt.
Upon investigation, deputies found the 9-year-old boy had sustained significant injuries, including severe abrasions around his right eye and neck, as well as welts on his torso. The boy recounted to the deputies that his father had assaulted him with a belt and a broom handle, and choked him to the point of unconsciousness. He also alleged that his father had threatened further violence.
The older boy also reported that his father had reacted violently when the younger child cried out of hunger. Moore allegedly tossed the 1-year-old into his crib. Upon examination, the younger child was found to have healed cigarette burns on his back and legs.
At the time of his arrest, Moore reportedly justified his actions to a relative, claiming he was punishing his older son for stealing. The boy was taken to the hospital by paramedics to receive treatment for his injuries. His mother, who did not reside with Moore, was not present at the time.
The younger child was taken into custody by Child Protective Services, as his mother was incarcerated at the time of Moore’s arrest. Court records indicate that Moore’s sentencing is set for January 21, 2026.