Image: Chasity Alcosiba-McKenzie (PC: Hawai’i County Police Department)
Honoka‘a Woman Indicted in Connection to Foster Child’s Death
News Source: Big Island Now
Chasity Alcosiba-McKenzie of Honoka‘a has been indicted for second-degree murder in the death of 3-year-old Fabian Garcia, who was in her care. The incident occurred on July 25, 2017, in a Waimea home, where Fabian suffered fatal blunt-force trauma to the head. Alcosiba-McKenzie allegedly failed to perform a duty imposed by law, which included obtaining necessary medical services for Fabian.
Initially arrested on August 15, 2018, Alcosiba-McKenzie was released from custody as charges were not filed by the Prosecutor’s Office at the time. However, she now faces trial following the indictment. The toddler’s parents had filed a lawsuit earlier this year against the state, Catholic Charities, the caregivers, and others for their son’s wrongful death.
If convicted, Alcosiba-McKenzie could face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment without parole. Jeffrey Foster, the family’s attorney, expressed their long-standing anguish and hope for accountability, emphasizing the need for changes in the foster care system to protect children better.
