Couple accused of killing child back in court

By Robbie Schwartz

The Walton Tribune

While officials are awaiting the autopsy report on the exact cause of death, the couple accused of killing their 6-year-old adopted child had their case bound over for further proceedings.

Jami Lea Jones, 36, and Louis David Jones, 39, both of 4930 Bay Creek Church Road, were in court Jan. 27 for their preliminary hearing on charges of murder, cruelty to children and aggravated battery. After Walton County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Ray Parker presented evidence related to the case, Chief Magistrate Judge Mike Burke determined there was enough evidence for the proceedings to continue on to a grand jury for possible indictment.

Both Joneses have filed motions for bonds and are expected to be back in court today.

The alleged murder took place on Christmas Eve, when emergency medical personnel responded to reports of an unresponsive child at the home. The child was taken from the home and died three days later.

Based on evidence and the physical appearance of the child at the time, WCSO investigators suspected foul play. Evidence found at the scene as well as interviews with the Joneses resulted in their arrest the same night the incident took place. The Department of Family and Children Services removed the other five children from the home.