Washington, D.C. — A local mother has been ordered to remain jailed without bail following serious allegations involving the deaths of her 13-month-old twins. Authorities claim Valencia Duke, 25, left the infants unattended in an apartment for an extended period, resulting in the death of her daughter and leaving her son severely malnourished.
The charges against Duke include first-degree felony murder related to the death of her daughter, Mazouri Jones, and two counts of first-degree cruelty to children. The tragic events unfolded between January 14 and January 18, when police discovered the children after receiving reports of an unconscious child. Mazouri was pronounced dead at the scene, with officials noting signs of dehydration and malnourishment. In contrast, her brother, who survived, was rushed to the hospital for urgent care.
Court documents reveal a disturbing timeline of events, indicating that Duke was reportedly in the apartment for only about two hours during the four-day period. Initially claiming the children were left with a babysitter, she eventually admitted to leaving them alone. The circumstances surrounding the children’s care and Duke’s absence have become focal points in the investigation.
The depravity of the living conditions became evident upon police entry into the apartment, described in court filings as filthy and cluttered. Investigators found food debris, laundry scattered near a playpen, and even bags suspected to contain illegal drugs. Witnesses later reported that the surviving twin exhibited extreme hunger upon arrival at the hospital, showing signs of distress.
After the medical examiner classified the case as a homicide in April, stating that Mazouri died from neglect-related causes, authorities intensified their focus on the investigation. Duke was apprehended shortly before her court appearance, as law enforcement worked on building a solid case against her.
During the arraignment, it was revealed that Duke is currently pregnant and has an older child, although details about the custody of that child remain undisclosed. Prosecutors indicated that they are still exploring the circumstances surrounding the family, including whether child welfare agencies had prior involvement.
The case has resonated deeply within the Southern Avenue community, leaving many residents grappling to comprehend such a tragic event. Local parents expressed disbelief at the allegations, with one resident highlighting the pain of losing a child and the need for accountability in cases involving vulnerable children.
As the court proceedings unfold, further developments are anticipated regarding the legal steps necessary for reviewing evidence and determining potential future charges. Valencia Duke remains in custody as the case progresses through D.C. Superior Court, where the allegations against her stand as a poignant reminder of the vital responsibility that comes with parenthood.