By HOI-ABC
BLOOMINGTON – The father of Rica Rountree appeared in court Wednesday after being arrested on circumstances surrounding his daughter’s death.
Richard Rountree was arrested Tuesday by the Normal Police Department and is being charged with endangering the health of a child, a Class 3 felony.
Our news partner HOI-ABC reports Richard Rountree heard the charge against him Wednesday as the State’s Attorney’s Office are arguing he “permitted Rica Rountree to be exposed to and failed to protect Rica Routnree from ongoing physical child abuse that was occurring within their shared residence.”
“The said conduct being a proximate cause of the death of Rica Rountree,” according to the documents.
The public defender for Richard Rountree asked the judge to lower his bond, which was set at $10,000, because he “has no where near that amount to post.” However, the judge kept the bond as is.
Richard Rountree’s arraignment is scheduled for 10 a.m. January 17.
In 2019, Cynthia Baker, Richard Rountrees girlfriend, was found guilty of murder in the death of Rica Rountree.
She was also found guilty of aggravated battery, endangering the life of a child and all three counts of domestic battery.
WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]
