WESTMORELAND COUNTY, PA. – Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, District Attorney Nicole W. Ziccarelli and Delmont Police announced criminal homicide charges in the death of Landon Maloberti, 5, of Delmont.
Westmoreland County Detectives filed criminal complaints last Thursday evening, arrest warrants were issued, and the alleged suspects were taken into custody Thursday evening.
Both defendants are currently in the Westmoreland County Prison and awaiting arraignment.
County Detectives and Delmont Police have been investigating allegations of severe child abuse since January that ultimately led to the death of Landon Maloberti.
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5-year-old Landon was initially taken to AHN Hempfield on the evening of Monday, January 30, 2023, after becoming unconscious and was then transported to Children’s Hospital, where he was under medical care until he passed away Tuesday evening, February 7, 2023.
Landon was in the care and supervision of his adoptive family leading up to his death.
A forensic examination revealed previous injuries and evidence of abuse prior to his death, as well.
A physician said that Landon went through multiple episodes of physical abuse, in combination with at least two types of emotional maltreatment, and suffered “substantial pain at the time they (injuries) were inflicted with impairment of function, including inability to stand, inability to eat or drink, and loss of consciousness.”
District Attorney Ziccarelli confirms criminal charges have been filed against the boy’s adoptive mother, Lauren Maloberti, and her husband, Jacob Maloberti.
Lauren Maloberti is charged with criminal homicide, murder of the first degree, endangering the welfare of children, two counts of aggravated assault of a child, and criminal conspiracy.
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Jacob Maloberti is charged with criminal homicide, endangering the welfare of children, two counts of aggravated assault, and criminal conspiracy.
District Attorney Ziccarelli said, “Tragically, Landon suffered abuse and trauma over the span of his short life. We intend to prosecute this case with the dignity and honor Landon deserves. I thank the tireless team of investigators, Assistant District Attorneys, the incredible medical and social services team at UPMC Children’s, AHN Hempfield, and the many assisting agencies in Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties who have worked collaboratively as we pursue justice for Landon.”
Delmont Police Chief T.J. Klobucar added, “In the 25 years I have been working for the Delmont Police Department, we have never faced an incident like this. All of the officers with Delmont Police worked many long hours on this case with the District Attorney’s Office. I want to thank the community of Delmont for their support and patience while this case was investigated. Finally, I want to thank District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli and her team for their support and resources that made this arrest possible.”
This remains an ongoing and active investigation.
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