Pensacola, FL— 9-year-old Dericka Lindsay, tragically died on October 14, 2017 when Dericka’s cousin Veronica Posey sat on Dericka for more than five minutes in an effort to get the girl under control. At the time Veronica weighed over 320 pounds and Dericka died from lack of oxygen after crying out several times that she could not breathe. 

Prior to her untimely death, Dericka had been subjected to severe abuse by her adoptive parents, James and Grace Smith, and her cousin Veronica Posey. 

The autopsy revealed that Dericka had bruising and brain swelling, indicating a history of abuse. The medical examiner revealed that Dericka was wearing four pairs of underwear to cushion the frequent beatings that took place in the home. 

This is a heartbreaking case that highlights the severe consequences of child abuse. 

The National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453

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