Marcus Markee Davis Jr. was a 1 year old boy who was murdered by his mother, Shannon Merriman whom was 22. Child protection services was first called to her home in June 2010 when there was neglect, domestic violence and substance abuse suspected. Then in August 2010, they were called again to the home where there was domestic violence suspected. The cases was looked upon and in-home child protective services was required for the safety of the child. In September 2010 there was abuse suspected again when Marcus had injuries that were not accidental by his parents. His father Marcus Davis Sr. was arrested on child abuse charges and the family was still looked upon April 2011. His mother Shannon had completed training and services for domestic violence, therefore the case was closed. In May 2011 it was suspected that the child was being neglected but the case was once again closed in June 2011 when there were no concerns for his well-being. On July 10, Marcus was rushed to the hospital from his mothers home on High Meadow Lane where she claimed he hit his head on the cabinet. She was arrested on July 13 at Carolinas Medical Center and charged with felony child abuse with no bond.
Child protective agencies need to be reformed because some of them are not doing their jobs at saving and protecting children from abuse. There were plenty of times where abuse was suspected and Marcus could have been taken out of this situation. They could have saved his life by taking him away from his mother and putting him in a home where he would be safe. Since he was left there after they visited their home he ended up constantly being abused and died because of this child abuse. Social workers need to be better at knowing when a child is unsafe in a certain home. They also need to further check on children whom have been suspected of child abuse in the past. By doing this they will be able to save more children from the abuse they endure from parents and caregivers.
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