Devon Mae Witryk, a 28-year-old resident of Pensacola, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Mar. 9 for one count of neglect of a child, according to an announcement from John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The case is significant as it involves federal charges related to child welfare and highlights the role of federal authorities in prosecuting such offenses. Witryk appeared for her arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho in Pensacola. The trial is set for April 6 at 8:30 am before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
If found guilty, Witryk could face up to five years in prison. The investigation was conducted by Eglin Security Forces Investigations, and Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer will prosecute the case.
Officials emphasized that an indictment is only an allegation and not evidence of guilt. “All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial,” the statement said.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices serving as principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. Public court documents can be accessed online through the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website.
