CORAL SPRINGS, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2024) — Coral Springs Police arrest mother who they say murdered her child 11 years ago.
Antwan “AJ” Hope, Jr. was only four years old when he passed away, than 11 years ago in Broward County. His grandma on his moms side, Shaunte Rivers and his grandma on his dads side Sharon Walker, both shared that Antwans mother, Destene Simmons had allegedly tried to suffocate him with a pillow years before his death.
Rivers mentioned that Simmons had been dealing with schizophrenia and depression. Now at 34 years old Simmons was facing charges of first degree murder and aggravated child abuse; however it wasn’t clear, as of Sunday whether these charges were linked to Antwans passing.
More than ten years of effort to seek justice detectives from the Coral Springs Police Department have apprehended Destene Simmons for the tragic murder of her son, Antwan Hope Jr. who was just four years old at the time of his untimely death in 2013.
The arrest signifies the conclusion of than a decade of investigative work carried out by the Crimes Against Persons Unit within the Coral Springs Police Department. The detectives revisited the case times throughout these years.
Chief Bradley McKeone expressed gratitude for the unwavering dedication shown by the Cold Case Detectives who worked tirelessly to bring closure to this heart wrenching case. “Our detectives never gave up on Antwan Hope Jr. They pursued every lead and followed every piece of evidence with determination. Today’s arrest is a testament to their dedication and a step closer to justice for Antwan.”
The Coral Springs Police Department also extends its appreciation to the Port St. Lucie Police Department for their assistance in apprehending Destene Simmons.
This arrest finally brings some peace and resolution to Antwan Hope Jr.s family, who have endured over a decade waiting for justice. The Coral Springs Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment, to ensuring that all victims receive justice regardless of how much time has passed.
