san antonio tx, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Derrick Coles, 35, was found guilty on five charges related to the death of his son, Danilo Coles, after the jury deliberated for approximately two hours. The case presented disturbing evidence of extreme abuse, including military-style exercises that ultimately resulted in cardiac arrest for the 12-year-old. Sentencing is set for October 20. The case highlights the ongoing issues of child abuse and the crucial role of the legal system in preventing such tragedies.
Derrick Coles Convicted of Child Abuse Leading to His Son’s Death
San Antonio, Texas — Derrick Coles, 35, was found guilty on five out of six charges related to his son’s death, 12-year-old Danilo Coles, after a jury deliberated for approximately two hours during a trial held on Thursday. Sentencing for Coles is scheduled for October 20.
The jury was presented with disturbing evidence showcasing the extreme abuse Danilo suffered, which included being forced to endure five continuous hours of military-style exercises imposed by his father as a form of punishment. This severe treatment culminated in Danilo’s tragic death, which was determined to be a result of serious bodily injuries inflicted on him.
Details Surrounding the Case
In 2022, Danilo was transported to University Hospital, where he was declared to be in full cardiac arrest and had no heart activity upon his arrival. Medical professionals testified to the various injuries inflicted upon him, revealing harrowing details of his suffering, which included beatings and burns with scalding water, alongside the excessive physical exertion that ultimately led to his heart failure.
Dr. Kevin King, an emergency room doctor, noted the alarming state in which Danilo arrived. Out of concerns regarding the circumstances surrounding his injuries, Coles’s alibi that Danilo had merely slipped and fallen in the shower began to falter, and further investigation uncovered multiple significant injuries consistent with non-accidental trauma.
The medical examiner, Dr. James Feig, classified Danilo’s death as a homicide, which was traced back to rhabdomyolysis—a condition triggered by extreme levels of physical exertion. An autopsy revealed that Danilo’s creatine kinase level was significantly elevated, measuring 3,326, far exceeding the normal range of 24 to 223.
Trial Developments
During the proceedings, Judge Joel Perez guided the jury on how to navigate the charges. The prosecution argued for justice for Danilo, compelling the jurors to consider the evidence presented against Coles. Conversely, the defense attorney contended that Coles was merely raising Danilo according to the methods he experienced in his own upbringing and requested that the charges be dismissed.
In addition to Derrick Coles, Danilo’s stepmother, Kapri Cheatom, is currently awaiting trial for her involvement, facing charges for serious bodily injury to a child. At the time of Danilo’s death, Cheatom was arrested, with her bond initially set at $150,000, later reduced to $75,000 while she currently remains in custody.
Context on Child Abuse and Legal Consequences
This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding child abuse and the critical role legal systems play in addressing such heinous acts. Instances of child abuse can often lead to tragic outcomes, prompting stricter laws and heightened awareness surrounding child protection. In Texas, laws dictate that any suspicion of child abuse must be reported to the appropriate authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of minors.
FAQs
- What charges was Derrick Coles convicted of?
- Derrick Coles was convicted on five counts of causing serious bodily injury to a child.
- What led to Danilo Coles’s death?
- Danilo Coles died as a result of severe physical abuse, including being forced to exercise excessively, leading to cardiac arrest.
- When is Derrick Coles’s sentencing scheduled?
- Derrick Coles’s sentencing is scheduled for October 20.
- What are the symptoms of rhabdomyolysis?
- Rhabdomyolysis symptoms often include muscle pain, weakness, and swelling, as well as dark urine and fatigue.
- What is the current status of Danilo’s stepmother?
- Danilo’s stepmother, Kapri Cheatom, is awaiting trial for serious bodily injury to a child and is currently imprisoned.
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Additional Resources
- KSAT News – Woman Sentenced
- Wikipedia: Child Abuse
- LMT Online – CBP Officers Arrest Man
- Google Search: Child Abuse Texas
- News 4 San Antonio – Ashley Pardo’s Husband Arrested
- Google Scholar: Child Abuse Legal Consequences
- KENS 5 – San Antonio Child Abuse Case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse Laws
- KSAT News – Man Arrested for Racist Attack
- Google News: Texas Child Abuse Legislation
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