WEST ALLIS, WI – A couple from a Milwaukee suburb face grave charges after their 4-year-old son was found dead outside a Dairy Queen, sparking a police investigation that revealed evidence of severe abuse and neglect.
Charlotte Kurek, 31, and Devario Cruz, 21, were both charged with chronic neglect of a child resulting in death, as well as an additional count of chronic neglect of a child. Court records show Cruz faces more severe counts, including first-degree reckless homicide and repeated physical abuse of a child causing death.
Authorities say the case came to light Saturday morning after Cruz discovered his son, identified as Dante Campbell, unresponsive in the bedroom he shared with his twin sister. Court documents reveal that by the time Cruz picked up the child, the boy was pale, blue, and unresponsive, with what appeared to be a final gasp for breath.
Despite Kurek’s apparent distress and insistence that they seek medical assistance, neither adult called 911 right away, authorities allege. Instead, the two drove from their West Allis home to a friend’s house, leaving three young children behind unattended. Only after dropping off the surviving twin did Kurek call emergency services, according to the criminal complaint.
Responding first responders and police met the pair in the parking lot of a local Dairy Queen after a dispatcher instructed them to pull over nearby for help. Reports from emergency crews indicate Dante was found stiff with discolored gums, suggesting he had been without oxygen for an extended period. The boy was rushed to a hospital, but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.
Medical examiners and investigators documented extensive bruising and other signs of trauma across Dante’s body. The severe nature of his injuries led at least one officer to describe them as among the worst he had ever seen on a young child.
In interviews with investigators, the parents provided conflicting accounts. Kurek initially claimed that Dante had sustained his injuries from a fall down the stairs, combined with bicycles and various objects falling on him. However, police cast doubt on that explanation, noting the injuries were inconsistent with such an accident.
Under further questioning, Kurek admitted she was not truthful about the events, stating fear for her own safety as the reason. She revealed concerns over Cruz’s allegedly “heavy-handed” behavior, though she asserted she believed past issues had been resolved.
Family members told authorities that Dante and his twin sister had previously lived with other relatives and only recently returned to their parents’ care. Records indicated Child Protective Services were familiar with the family, and a former neighbor recounted past instances of the twins being left alone overnight and frequent disturbances at the residence.
Investigators also found evidence suggesting neglect beyond physical abuse. A search of the home turned up a pound of marijuana and household weapons. Additionally, Dante’s twin sister was observed with several physical injuries; she reportedly told a police officer that she had been hurt by her father.
During police interviews, Cruz reportedly acknowledged the degree of force he used against his son, describing it on a scale of 7 or 8 out of 10. Authorities believe the lethal beating occurred the day before the child was found dead.
Kurek and Cruz are currently being held on bail—$250,000 and $100,000, respectively—and both have appeared in court to face the charges. The investigation remains ongoing.
A memorial fundraiser stated that Dante was “a happy and loving boy” whose life ended tragically at the hands of those expected to protect him. Community members and relatives continue to mourn his loss as the legal process unfolds.