LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The parents of a 2-year-old found dead in a valley dumpster are facing new child abuse charges, according to court documents obtained by FOX5.
In July, Diaja Smith and Jacoby Robinson were indicted on charges of open murder and child abuse in the death of their son, Jacoby Robison Jr. On Friday, a grand jury handed down a superseding indictment that added seven charges of child abuse with a deadly weapon involving a second child.
Jurors were shown surveillance video of Smith placing two of her children in a stroller, with her youngest strapped to her chest, and walking to a nearby dumpster. While the dumpster was out of frame, court transcripts stated an audible “thud” could be heard.
Smith could also be observed returning with only two of her children. Police believe Jacoby Robinson Jr. was dead when he was placed in the stroller.
Court documents also revealed that Smith’s three children were in the care of a foster family up until two months before the toddler’s death. According to investigators, the children appeared to be uninjured until they were returned to Smith’s care on April 1.
An investigator with Child Protective Services said at least one of Smith’s children was found with several injuries in varying degrees of healing.
According to investigators, Robinson Sr. had also planned to leave town immediately following the toddler’s death.
Smith and Robinson previously pleaded not guilty but will have a chance to enter new pleas for the additional charges on Wednesday, Sept. 4.
Their trial date is currently set for June 23, 2025.
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