The grandmother of an 8-year-old girl found strangled to death was charged with her murder and ordered held without bail Sunday.
Helen Ford, 51, of the 5200 block of West Adams Street, was charged with first-degree murder Sunday after allegedly strangling and beating 8-year-old Gizzell Ford, police said.
Officials were called to Ford’s Austin residence around 11 a.m. Friday for reports of an unresponsive 8-year-old girl, according to Chicago Police News Affairs Officer Jose Estrada.
Police said there were cuts and bruises covering Gizzell Ford's body and were signs that the young girl was abused. Authorities said Helen Ford was the only caregiver.
Gizzell Ford was pronounced dead on the scene and a death investigation was conducted, Estrada said.
An autopsy Saturday determined Gizzell Ford died from strangulation and multiple blunt force injuries due to child abuse and child neglect, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office.
Her death was ruled a homicide, the medical examiner's office said.
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Neighbors of Ford said at least two of the girl's younger siblings also lived in the home.
Department of Children and Family Services said they are investigating to determine if the grandma neglected and abused the young girl. They have placed her two siblings in protective custody, DCFS said.
