The foster parent of 2-year-old Za’Marion Wilcox has been arrested, after Wilcox drowned over Labor Day Weekend at their community pool.
Travis Wagner, 37, has been charged with Homicide by Child Abuse. The warrant states that Za’Marion fell in the pool while Wagner was responsible for him.
In November DSS stated after a 45 day investigation, the foster parents of Wilcox were found physically negligent. The Wagners appealed that decision. DSS says they will have a hearing after the holidays.
If that decision is upheld, the Wagners will be placed on the registry for Child Abuse and Neglect, barring them from working in a childcare setting or adopting or fostering.
Attorney Sloan Ellis released this statement on behalf of the Wagner family:
“Travis and Rebecca Wagner felt a calling to become foster parents in order to provide a loving home for children who had been removed from their biological parents. In addition to their own children and the four previous foster children they had taken in, Travis and Rebecca loved Za’Marion if he was their own son. They were completely devastated and heartbroken by this tragic accident. The Wagner’s continue to pray for Za’marion’s family during this tragic time. This incident was an accident and we intend on vigorously contesting the criminal charge”
Wagner is expected to have a bond hearing Wednesday evening at 9:30.
