By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Atlantic County announced that on Friday, January 16, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office sent motions to dismiss indictments to the Superior Court – Criminal Part requesting dismissal of all pending indictments against La’Quetta Small and Constance Days-Chapman (pictured).
Once reviewed and, if approved by the Court, they will be officially filed, according to Atlantic County officials.
Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds issued the following statement:
“Since the day our office received the mandatory referral of child abuse allegations from DCP&P on January 24, 2024, this office investigated the allegations honestly and impartially, only striving to seek the truth and ultimately find justice for the aggrieved child victim.
During the trial of Marty Small, the victim’s voice was heard, even though attempts were made to stifle it. Jada Small testified to her truth. And that truth was corroborated with impartial, substantiating evidence.
Ultimately, a jury consisting of Atlantic County residents heard and saw all of the evidence and found Marty Small not guilty. As required by the New Jersey Victim Bill of Rights, this week we were finally able to sit down with Jada in person to discuss her wishes and our thoughts on moving forward.
Based on her wishes, keeping in mind the prior not guilty verdict, and in an attempt not to revictimize Jada again with trials against her mother and longtime family friend, we believe it is prudent and responsible to dismiss the remaining indictments against them.
Just last week, the victim received a threat, racial in tone, on one of her social media accounts pertaining to the accusations she made against her father.
While we actively investigate this threat, we believe it is no longer in her best interest, both emotionally and perhaps even physically, for us to continue with our cases against La’Quetta Small and Constance Days-Chapman at this time.
The further intent of this decision is to hopefully allow Jada, her family, and the community the time to heal and move forward.”