Trial for Duncan and Velez to Begin in 2027
The legal process for the two defendants moves forward following the 2026 death of a 2-year-old boy in Rochester.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Child Care
India Duncan and Joshua Velez are set to stand trial on October 4, 2027, following the 2026 death of 2-year-old Isaiah Jones in Rochester. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, manslaughter, and child injury.
Why it matters
The trial represents a critical step in the legal process surrounding the death of a toddler in a Rochester housing complex. It follows a homicide ruling by the Monroe County Medical Examiner that determined the injuries were non-accidental.
A court has finalized a trial date for October 4, 2027, regarding the death of 2-year-old Isaiah Jones. The case follows a Monroe County Medical Examiner ruling that the death was a homicide caused by non-accidental injuries.
The players
India Duncan
A defendant charged with murder, manslaughter, and acting in a manner to injure a child.
Joshua Velez
A defendant charged with murder, manslaughter, and acting in a manner to injure a child.
Isaiah Jones
A 2-year-old child who died from non-accidental injuries in May 2026.
Monroe County Medical Examiner
The local authority that conducts death investigations and ruled this case a homicide.
The details
The defendants, India Duncan and Joshua Velez, face charges including murder, manslaughter, and acting in a manner to injure a child. The charges stem from a May 10, 2026, incident where the child was found unresponsive at a Dewey Avenue housing complex. Medical findings indicated the toddler sustained non-accidental trauma to his head and body.
Timeline
May 10, 2026: Police discovered the unresponsive child on Dewey Avenue.
August 2026: The two suspects were arrested and charged in the case.
October 4, 2027: The trial for the two defendants is scheduled to begin.
Health Landscape
Legal proceedings in cases of pediatric trauma are governed by state-level sentencing and criminal procedure guidelines. This trial will test the application of these standards regarding the fatal, non-accidental injuries identified in the death of Isaiah Jones.
This case highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of non-accidental injury in young children. If you suspect a child is experiencing harm, immediate consultation with a pediatrician or local child protective services is the necessary path.
The takeaway
Understanding the gravity of pediatric trauma is essential for community vigilance. Parents and caregivers should discuss concerns regarding a child's safety or suspicious injuries with a medical professional immediately.
Further reading
For more information on family safety and child wellness, visit Child Care.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WHEC.
