BRANFORD, Conn. — A father faces serious charges after allegedly killing his 12-year-old son with a baseball bat, a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the local community. During a recent court appearance, the 52-year-old suspect, Anthony A. Esposito Jr., outlined his disturbing rationale for the attack.
According to prosecutors, Esposito claimed he struck his son in retribution for what he described as “disrespectful” behavior, further admitting to physically harming his 16-year-old daughter. Authorities said he expressed a willingness to have harmed his daughter as well, had he been able to access the weapon.
The defense highlighted Esposito’s troubling mental health history, noting episodes of childhood trauma, including abuse and multiple psychiatric hospitalizations. His attorney stated the father had not received consistent treatment for about 15 years, following a time when he reported auditory hallucinations. Esposito is currently processing the recent loss of his mother, who died by suicide.
Although he has no prior criminal record, the severity of the charges against him has raised significant concerns. The baseball bat incident occurred at the family’s home on Hemlock Road around 4 p.m. Thursday. Esposito was later arrested during a traffic stop on Route 79.
Grief counselors have been activated in the Branford Public Schools district to support students and staff impacted by this tragic loss. The young victim was a student in the local school system, leaving friends and teachers in mourning.
In a statement, Branford police expressed their condolences, recognizing the profound effect this incident has had on the community, particularly on the family and friends of the victim.
Esposito has been ordered held on a $3 million bond, with provisions for medical treatment and suicide watch while in custody. He faces potential life imprisonment without parole if convicted. The judge issued a protective order prohibiting him from contacting anyone named as a protected party in the case.
As the legal process unfolds, the Branford community grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, marked by disbelief and a desperate search for answers.