Advocates Urge Monroe County DA to Drop Charges Against Grieving Mother
Written by Site Hub on July 1, 2025
Community activists, faith leaders, and legislators are urging Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley to drop charges against Cyonna Badger, a mother charged with criminally negligent homicide and endangering the welfare of a child after her 7-year-old son, Hakeem, was fatally struck by a U-Haul while crossing the street. The tragic incident occurred on July 4, 2024, when Badger and a group crossed West Ridge Road against a green light. Supporters argue the mother is being retraumatized and that no prior history of abuse or neglect existed. Public defenders and advocates argue the situation was a tragic accident, not criminal behavior. Badger returned to court as the case continues, with growing public support calling for compassion and reevaluation of how such cases are prosecuted.
Source: Rochester First