LCCS says investigations found no evidence to remove Kei'Mani Latigue from home after 3 reports

TOLEDO, Ohio -- Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) announced that it found no evidence warranting the removal of Kei'Mani Latigue from her home following three reports concerning her welfare. The agency received reports on December 8, 2023, and March 21, 2024, related to Kei'Mani's care while she was living with her grandmother, Dorothy Latigue.

LCCS conducted thorough investigations, including interviews with Kei'Mani and consultations with various individuals connected to the family. Ultimately, LCCS determined that no actions warranted the removal of Kei'Mani from her grandmother's custody and provided guidance on appropriate discipline while referring the family to supportive services, such as OhioRISE, for behavioral health needs.

Since the last report on March 21, 2024, LCCS stated that no further allegations of abuse or neglect concerning Kei'Mani were reported. Furthermore, the agency confirmed that there was no documented information about Kei'Mani's father. Darnell Jones, who is now charged with her murder, has not been identified as Kei'Mani's father or as someone involved in her care.

As the investigation into Kei'Mani's tragic death unfolds, LCCS has opted to maintain confidentiality regarding the details of its inquiries, emphasizing the need to prioritize justice in this case. The prosecutor has permitted the release of limited information, with LCCS intending to share further details when it is assured that doing so will not hinder ongoing criminal proceedings.

Kei'Mani was reported missing on March 18, and her body was discovered in a house in east Toledo shortly thereafter. The Lucas County Coroner's Office ruled her death a homicide due to multiple deep cuts to her neck. Darnell Jones has been charged not only with murder but also with felonious assault and abduction in connection to her disappearance and death, and he was involved in a police incident with SWAT officers shortly after.