WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced that a West Chester couple has been charged in connection with the alleged neglect of their 16-year-old son, who was found to be severely malnourished and in critical condition earlier this year.
According to investigators, 59-year-old Leticia Cox and 59-year-old Mark Cox Sr. face multiple charges stemming from an April 2025 ChildLine report that described a teenage boy in severe physical distress. Authorities allege that the couple failed to provide adequate care and medical attention for their child, despite having the means to do so.
Following a preliminary hearing held on Wednesday, Judge Lieberman ordered all charges bound over to the Chester County Court of Common Pleas. The case will now proceed for further judicial review.
Court documents indicate that on April 15, 2025, Leticia Cox brought the child to a local healthcare facility for a routine examination. Medical personnel reported that the teen appeared emaciated, dehydrated, and had extensive dental decay. The child, standing 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing approximately 74.8 pounds, was described as visibly frail and reluctant to speak.
The following day, after being urged by law enforcement and child protective services to seek immediate medical attention, Mark Cox Sr. brought the child to Chester County Hospital. The teen was later transferred to Nemours Children’s Hospital, where physicians classified his condition as a near fatality.
Investigators stated that the child was covered by medical insurance, but records did not show any prior visits to a doctor or dentist before April 15. Evidence gathered through phone records allegedly showed that both defendants were aware of the child’s deteriorating condition but failed to act. Authorities also determined that the child was homeschooled and had little to no contact with adults outside of the home.
Leticia Cox has been charged with aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children, recklessly endangering another person, and tampering with evidence. Mark Cox Sr. has been charged with endangering the welfare of children and recklessly endangering another person.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe condemned the alleged neglect, stating that while many families struggle to provide for their children, the defendants “had every resource available” yet failed to fulfill their legal and moral responsibilities.
West Chester Police Chief Joshua Lee emphasized the importance of community vigilance, noting that protecting children “is everybody’s duty and obligation.”
The case was investigated by the Chester County Detectives with assistance from the West Chester Borough Police Department. First Assistant District Attorney Erin O’Brien is prosecuting the case.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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