Death of Toddler in Home of Massachusetts Police Lieutenant

In a distressing turn of events, authorities are currently probing the untimely demise of a 2-year-old girl discovered lifeless in the residence of a Massachusetts police lieutenant who faced child rape charges last year. James Feeley, 56, had been previously charged with aggravated child rape and two counts of indecent assault and battery of a child under 14 in December, as reported by various local news outlets.

The alarming case took a grim turn when Feeley, found in a cemetery on Christmas night, confessed to raping and assaulting a child, according to court documents obtained by news sources. Winthrop Police Chief Terrance Delehanty discovered Feeley at the gravesite with a firearm, revealing that Feeley was allegedly suicidal at the time. Following the incident, Feeley was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of a criminal investigation.

Being a foster parent, Feeley had also been under investigation by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, with reports confirming that no foster children were residing at his home during the investigation period. However, the department did not disclose whether other children were present.

Recent developments reveal that a 2-year-old girl, who had been residing in Feeley’s home, was found dead. The Suffolk District Attorney’s Office spokesperson stated that the initial investigation indicated no signs of foul play or physical trauma, and investigators are currently awaiting the results of an autopsy.

Emergency services responded to Feeley’s residence in Winthrop around 10:20 on a Friday morning, transporting the child to the hospital while administering life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, the child tragically succumbed to her injuries.

Feeley, arrested the previous month, has been held in custody on a $200,000 bail and has pleaded not guilty to the charges. In a recent update, Winthrop Police Chief Terrance Delehanty announced that Feeley has been removed from his position within the Winthrop Police Department. The case continues to unfold, shedding light on the intersection of criminal charges, a tragic loss, and the repercussions within the local law enforcement community.

About The Author