Dependency Hearing For Sibs Of Hollywood Toddler Found Dead In Attic
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FT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) - Nelson Osceola, the father of a 3-year-old boy who was found dead in his Hollywood home last week, learned at a dependency hearing on Monday he has lost visitation rights to his other children.
"Visitation will be suspended until the police have finished their forensic investigation of the minor child," the judge said.
That police investigation will likely take much of the week.
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Missing from the court proceeding was Analiz Osceola.
She was Ahizya Osceola's step mother. She was also the one who reported him missing.
"She's currently in the psychiatric ward. She went into the hospital on Friday night," said an attorney for DCF.
Ahizya's mom, Karen Cyrpess, pleaded for his safe return last week.
Through her attorney, she said she worried about Ahziya because when she would see him, he was bruised. She was seeking custody.
Her attorney said she even contacted the Department of Children and Families about her concerns.
Nelson Osceola's attorney would not comment.
There have been several DCF investigations involving the little boy -- four since 2013. The last one was in February, centering on the father's house. There were no signs of abuse.
Osceola's attorney said his client is having a tough time.
"It doesn't' take a big imagination when your 3-year-old son is dead and they're accusing you and or your loved ones with abuse," said Osceola's attorney Hilliard Moldof. "He's distraught. Rightfully so."
Investigators said Friday morning they found the toddler's body hidden in the attic of the home where he lived with his father, stepmother and siblings. DCF removed Ahizya's two siblings from the home.
So far no one has been charged in the death of Ahizyah.
On Saturday, a judge postponed a dependency hearing because Nelson Osceola, did not have an attorney. Currently, the children are being cared for by an aunt.
Family members said Ahizya was laid to rest Sunday at the Big Cypress Indian Reservation in Clewiston.
