Group Holds 'Peaceful Protest' Outside Freund Murder Case Hearing

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — Members of the local activist group ROAR for AJ participated in a peaceful protest Tuesday outside the McHenry County Courthouse, while the parents of slain 5-year-old AJ Freund were inside at a court hearing, according to the McHenry County resident Tracy Kotzman, who organized the protest.

The group was created for those committed to having an impact on the judicial system's handling of DCFS procedures, while also pushing for justice to be served nearly two months after AJ was found dead in a rural area of Woodstock. According to a post by Kotzman on the ROAR for AJ Facebook page, the Tuesday event was aimed at "putting pressure on the judicial system to be sure Justice is served for AJ."

JoAnn Cunningham, 36, and Andrew Freund Sr, 60, are charged in the child's murder. They are being accused of forcing their son to stay in a cold shower for an extended period and beating him, which lead to the young boy's death.

During Tuesday’s hearing for Cunningham and Freund, the McHenry County State's Attorney's office asked the couple to submit their fingerprints and DNA, according to CBS.

Cunningham, who is being held at the McHenry County Jail, gave birth to a baby girl May 31, WGN reported, citing a DCFS source. According to the report, Cunningham agreed to keep the child in DCFS custody.

"Slowly but surely we are growing, and our voices are getting out there," Kotzman told Patch, adding that demonstrations like the one Tuesday were another way for the community to get involved.

In addition to protesting, ROAR members have written letters to elected officials and have shared information to help others do the same. Kotzman encourages people who are committed to making a difference to actively participate in seeing that AJ gets justice, according to a post on the Facebook group.

More:

• 'So Many Have Grieved': Group To Hold Protest For AJ Freund
• Groups Petition For Changes To DCFS Following AJ Freund's Death
• Police Release Initial Report in AJ Freund Case
• AJ Freund Died Three Days Before He Was Reported Missing: Report

Among the information shared in the group in an effort to help others get involved include a pre-written letter draft to elected officials, tips on how to make (what to include) in protest signs, polls to encourage group member feedback, t-shirt orders and more.

Patch will update this story as more information comes in regarding Tuesday's hearing.