North Carolina Women Charged with Murder in Torture and Starvation of 6-Year-Old
Three women – Susan Robinson, 61, Tonya McKnight, 51 and Tery’n McKnight, 22 – have been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Dominique Moody, a six-year-old girl who died on December 16, 2025, after months of alleged abuse and torture in Charlotte, North Carolina. The case has drawn national attention due to the horrific details of the abuse and the prolonged period before authorities intervened with murder charges.
From Abuse Charges to Murder: A Timeline of Events
Initially arrested in late 2025 on charges of intentional child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury and four counts of misdemeanor child abuse, the investigation subsequently escalated to homicide charges. This progression highlights the severity of the evidence uncovered during the investigation, revealing a pattern of prolonged and escalating abuse.
Horrific Living Conditions and Physical Abuse
Police responding to a call that Dominique was not breathing found the child in a dire state. She was reportedly dirty, with open wounds and scars in various stages of healing covering much of her body. At the time of her death, Dominique weighed only 27 pounds.
Evidence suggests Tonya McKnight subjected the child to physical restraints, including being wrapped in duct tape and plastic. Investigators found images on cell phones documenting these alleged acts. Dominique was also allegedly deprived of food for over a year as punishment for behaviors like eating inside the house.
The child was allegedly forced to remain in soiled diapers for days, resulting in severe rashes.
Confinement and Neglect
Documents detail that Dominique was forced to stay inside a dog crate in the living room and later sleep on the bathroom floor covered in feces. The home, shared with four other children aged 1 to 5, was described as extremely unkempt, infested with rats and cockroaches, and lacking adequate heating. The only heat sources were the kitchen oven and portable heaters, with overnight temperatures dropping to as low as -6°C (20°F).
Other children reportedly told authorities that Dominique was placed in front of the oven in an attempt to “warm her up and bring her back to life.”
Evidence of Injury and Attempts to Conceal Abuse
A forensic examination revealed fractures in Dominique’s ribs, an old fracture in her toe, ligature marks around her ankle, circular scars consistent with burns, and multiple open wounds. Following Dominique’s death, Susan Robinson and Tonya McKnight allegedly exchanged messages discussing being “in trouble” and the need to clean the house.
Robinson and Tery’n McKnight face additional charges for failing to intervene or take action to stop the abuse.
Denial of Bail and Ongoing Investigation
On Thursday, Judge Cecilia Oseguera denied bail to all three women, who remain incarcerated in the Mecklenburg County jail. The whereabouts and current situation of the other children who resided in the home have not been publicly released.
FAQ
What charges are the women facing?
Susan Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight are each charged with first-degree murder.
What were the conditions like in the home?
The home was described as extremely unsanitary, infested with pests, lacking adequate heating, and containing evidence of prolonged abuse and neglect.
Was Dominique receiving medical care?
Details regarding Dominique’s medical care are not fully available, but the extent of her injuries and malnourishment suggest a lack of adequate medical attention.
What is the status of the other children who lived in the home?
Their whereabouts and current situation have not been publicly disclosed.
Did you know? The case highlights the critical importance of reporting suspected child abuse and the potential consequences of failing to intervene.
Pro Tip: If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, contact your local child protective services agency or call 911 immediately.
Explore more articles on La Opinion for further coverage of this and other important news stories.
