Two former youth counselors at Lakeside Academy in Kalamazoo, Michigan, have been sentenced to 18 months on probation for their involvement in the death of 16-year-old Cornelius Fredericks. Michael Mosley, 50, and Zachary Solis, 30, pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter in the incident that occurred on May 1, 2020. The counselors were initially charged with two counts of second-degree child abuse, but these charges were dropped.
The tragic incident unfolded when Fredericks lost consciousness after being restrained by staff at the youth home. Prosecutors revealed that he was being restrained for throwing a sandwich. The restraint caused a lack of blood flow and oxygen, resulting in Fredericks’ loss of consciousness. Despite efforts to revive him, Fredericks never regained consciousness and passed away from a heart attack at a Kalamazoo hospital.
The Kalamazoo County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death a homicide, highlighting the severity of the situation. The former director of nursing at Lakeside, Heather Newton McLogan, also faced charges in the case and was sentenced to 18 months probation in September 2021.
Lakeside Academy, which was a facility for teenagers with behavioral problems, has since been closed down. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of youth in such facilities.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of proper training and oversight in youth homes and similar institutions. The sentencing of the former counselors and the closure of Lakeside Academy bring some measure of justice for Cornelius Fredericks and his grieving family.
It is crucial for authorities to thoroughly investigate and address any incidents of abuse or negligence in youth facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in their care. The consequences of failing to do so can be devastating, as seen in this heartbreaking case.
As society reflects on this incident, it is essential to prioritize the protection of young people and work towards creating safer environments for their development and growth.
