Contra Costa Couple Faces Torture, Homicide Charges In Toddler's Death

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — A Rodeo couple is facing multiple charges in connection with the death of a 2-year-old child.

The Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office charged 22-year-old Destiny Deboe and 21-year-old Tyshawn Haywood with homicide, child abuse resulting in death, torture in the death of a toddler, and abuse of an infant.

The pair was booked into the county jail in Martinez early Tuesday. Their arraignment —originally scheduled for Friday — has been set for Oct. 20 in Martinez after defense attorneys requested more time to review the evidence in the case, the DA's Office said.

Around 8:50 p.m. Monday, Contra Costa County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a report of a 2-year-old drowning in a bathtub.

Emergency personnel also responded and began life-saving measures on the child. The toddler was rushed to a local hospital but was later pronounced dead by medical staff.

Sheriff’s detectives determined the child did not die from accidental drowning but rather from injuries sustained from prolonged abuse, Contra Costa County DA's Office Spokesperson Ted Asregadoo said.

It was also discovered that a 10-month-old baby also under the care and custody of the pair suffered life-threatening injuries from abuse, Asregadoo told Patch.

"We’re not disclosing the relationships at this point," Asregadood said.

The DA's Office reviewed the evidence from police authorities and filed charges Thursday afternoon.

Because of the seriousness of the allegations, Haywood and Deboe were each being held in lieu of $3.1 million bail, the DA's Office said.

"The loss of a young life deeply impacts us all," District Attorney Diana Becton said. "Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this incredibly difficult time. We are committed to seeking justice and holding those responsible accountable for their actions."