Roger Gillespie: Iowa man arrested after 2-year-old toddler succumbs to injuries while under his care
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
CENTERVILLE, IOWA: A man from Iowa, has been apprehended and faces charges concerning the death of a 2-year-old toddler.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety issued a statement outlining the charges against 48-year-old Roger Gillespie and providing comprehensive information about his arrest.
Notably, Gillespie served as a caretaker for the toddler Journey Marberry, who tragically passed away eight days after being admitted to the hospital.
What happened to toddler Journey Marberry?
On Friday, January 19, around 12.50 pm Centerville law enforcement and emergency services responded to a call at 1417 Drake Avenue regarding an injured child.
The identity of the individual who reported her injury to law enforcement is yet to be confirmed.
Upon arrival, officers and EMS providers discovered 2-year-old Journey Marberry injured inside the residence.
She was swiftly transported to MercyOne Hospital in Centerville and subsequently to the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.
Tragically, on Saturday, January 27, Journey passed away due to her injuries, approximately eight days after she was discovered injured.
Charges filed against Roger Gillespie
On January 27, at around 12.30 pm, the Iowa State Patrol tactical team apprehended Roger Gillespie from Centerville on a warrant for Child Endangerment Causing Death, classified as a class B felony.
Gillespie, who was caring for Marberry at the time of her injuries, was arrested without incident and is presently held in the Appanoose County Jail.
The arrest of Gillespie followed a collaborative investigation conducted by the Centerville Police Department, Appanoose County Sheriff's Office, and the Major Crime Unit of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
For inquiries related to this investigation, please contact Centerville Police Chief Tom Demry at 641-437-7100.
It is important to note that a criminal charge is an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
