EFFINGHAM CO., GA (WTOC) -
The trial of a Rincon man who was arrested two years ago in connection with a toddler's death is under way in Effingham County.
The jury has been selected and opening arguments have started in Kevin Johnson's trial. He's accused in the death of 2-year-old Melanie Haynes in February 2010. He faces eight counts for murder, aggravated assault, and cruelty to children.
Effingham County sheriff's deputies said he beat her in the head with a blunt object and then called police. She later died at Memorial University Medical Center.
Several witnesses have taken the stand including deputies with the Effingham County Sheriff's Office and the dispatcher who took the 911 call. They all testified that upon their arrival at the house on Aspen Road in Rincon the toddler was lying on a bedroom floor not breathing with a black eye and bruises on her face.
The child's mother Angela Rocha also took the stand. She now lives in California.
The trial is expected to wrap up Friday with testimony from the medical examiner.
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Kevin Johnson on trial
Melanie Haynes
Family of Melanie Haynes
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