Charlotte, NC, February 7, 2026
In a tragic case from Charlotte, North Carolina, three women have been charged with first-degree murder following the death of six-year-old Dominique Moody. The charges were escalated after prosecutors revealed new disturbing details regarding the abuse conditions in which the child lived. The defendants, Susan Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight, remain in custody after bond was denied. The community is grappling with the implications of this heinous crime, emphasizing the need for vigilant child protection efforts.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Three women in Charlotte now face first-degree murder charges in connection with the death of a six-year-old girl, Dominique Moody. The upgraded charges were announced following the revelation of disturbing new details by prosecutors on Thursday, February 6, 2026. A judge subsequently denied bond for all three defendants, ensuring they will remain in custody.
Upgraded Charges in Tragic Case
The three individuals, identified as Susan Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight, were initially arrested in December 2025 in connection with the child abuse case. The severe nature of the abuse charges at that time already hinted at the possibility of upgraded charges, which have now materialized into first-degree murder.
Prosecutors presented new and deeply concerning information about the circumstances surrounding Dominique Moody’s death during recent court proceedings. These revelations prompted the decision to elevate the charges against the women. The child was found unresponsive in December 2025 at a home in East Charlotte and later died.
Disturbing Allegations Revealed
Court documents have shed light on the horrific living conditions allegedly present in the home where Dominique Moody resided. Among the grim details, it was revealed that the six-year-old girl was reportedly forced into an animal crate at times. These disturbing allegations underscore the severity of the abuse the child endured.
The initial investigation into the child’s death began after she was discovered not breathing. The subsequent findings have led to a broader inquiry into the environment and care provided to Dominique. The gravity of the situation has profoundly affected the community and those involved in the investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
A jury had indicted Susan Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight last month, prior to the recent upgrade to murder charges. The legal process is continuing, with Susan Robinson scheduled to appear in court again in March.
Authorities have indicated that the investigation remains active and ongoing. This suggests the possibility of additional charges as more information comes to light. The state prosecutors are committed to pursuing justice for Dominique Moody and ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable. The diligence in gathering evidence and presenting a comprehensive case is paramount in such sensitive circumstances.
The denial of bond for the three defendants signifies the court’s recognition of the serious nature of the charges and the potential risk involved. This decision is standard in cases involving grave offenses, particularly those pertaining to violence against vulnerable individuals.
Community Impact and Child Protection
Cases of child abuse leading to death deeply impact communities, serving as a stark reminder of the critical importance of child protection. Local authorities and social services often emphasize the need for vigilance within neighborhoods to identify and report signs of abuse or neglect. The collective responsibility of the community plays a vital role in safeguarding children from harm. The legal system works to address these egregious crimes, aiming to provide justice for victims and deter future offenses. Public awareness campaigns often highlight the resources available for reporting suspected child abuse, including hotlines and local protective services, to encourage intervention before tragic outcomes occur.
Timeline of Key Events
- December 2025: Six-year-old Dominique Moody found unresponsive; women initially arrested on child abuse charges.
- January 2026: A jury indicts Susan Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight.
- February 6, 2026: Prosecutors reveal new disturbing details; charges against the three women are upgraded to first-degree murder; bond is denied for all defendants.
- March 2026: Susan Robinson is due to appear in court.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who has been charged in this child abuse murder case?
Three Charlotte women, identified as Susan Robinson, Tonya McKnight, and Tery’n McKnight, have been charged with first-degree murder.
What is the victim’s name and age?
The victim is six-year-old Dominique Moody.
When were the murder charges filed?
The charges were upgraded to first-degree murder on Thursday, February 6, 2026, after prosecutors revealed new disturbing details.
What specific allegations have been made about the child’s treatment?
Court documents reveal allegations of horrific living conditions in the home, and that Dominique Moody was reportedly forced into an animal crate at times.
What is the current status of the defendants?
Bond has been denied for all three women, meaning they remain in custody. The investigation is ongoing, and more charges could be coming.
When is the next court appearance for one of the defendants?
Susan Robinson is due back in court in March.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Description | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Charges | First-degree murder | State-level (North Carolina) |
| Number of Defendants | Three women | Charlotte, NC |
| Victim’s Age | Six years old | Charlotte, NC |
| Victim’s Name | Dominique Moody | Charlotte, NC |
| Location of Incident | A home in East Charlotte | Charlotte, NC |
| Current Custody Status | Bond denied, defendants remain in custody | Charlotte, NC |
| Key Allegations | Horrific living conditions, forced into an animal crate | Charlotte, NC |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing, potential for more charges | State-level (North Carolina) |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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