Statement on the Death of a 6-month old Baby Boy - Ezekiel Resendiz

December 21, 2017-

The Department of Child Safety grieves over the death of a six-month-old baby boy, Ezekiel Resendiz*. 
 
On December 19, 2017, the boy’s father, Robert Resendiz, called law enforcement to report that he found the baby unresponsive on the family’s couch.
 
Mr. Resendiz claimed he discovered his son with a blanket over his face and reported that the baby had a previous history of either choking or having a seizure. The baby was transported to the hospital.
 
Hospital staff revealed the baby had multiple, significant injuries that were inconsistent with Mr. Resendiz’s story.
 
Mr. Resendiz eventually admitted to causing the injuries and he was arrested on child abuse charges.
 
The baby passed away today, December 21, 2017.
 
DCS has received no prior reports involving Mr. Resendiz as a perpetrator.
 
The Department has received one prior report involving the baby.
 
On October 13, 2017, DCS received a report alleging neglect to the baby by his mother.
 
He had a major surgery during the first week of his life.
 
The report alleged mother neglecting to take him to follow-up care after the surgery.
 
The subsequent DCS investigation revealed that mother had recently switched insurance plans and had been taking the baby to a doctor.
The allegations were unsubstantiated.
 
There were no other children residing in the home at the time of the baby’s death.
 
The Department will continue to work with the Phoenix Police Department to ensure justice for this innocent life.

*This statement was UPDATED January 3rd to include name of Baby Boy - Ezekiel Resendiz (see Preliminary Report (link is external))