Commonwealth's Attorney

On April 24, 2024, after a trial by jury, Dequan Foreman was found guilty of three felonies related to the killing of 11-month-old, Zyn Evans-Hopkins. On October 18, 2024, Judge Christopher R. Papile sentenced Dequan Foreman the maximum sentence allowed by law on each charge, for a total of 25 years in prison. Judge Papile also ordered 3 years of post-release supervision.

During the sentencing hearing, some of Zyn’s family members spoke powerfully about his death and the effect it has had on those who loved him. The Commonwealth asked the court to sentence the Defendant the maximum sentence permitted under the law for each charge, noting the Defendant’s significant and violent criminal history and the shocking injuries that the defendant caused Zyn to suffer in his final moments. Those injuries included a broken skull, brain bleed, broken ribs, ruptured spleen, and significant bruising to his back.

“When someone injures a child in Newport News, they will answer for that crime because this office will always speak up for the youngest and most vulnerable victims who are unable to speak for themselves.” Said Commonwealth’s Attorney Howard Gwynn. “Child abusers will face accountability for their actions,” he added.

In making this determination, Judge Papile considered all the evdience presented by both sides, and noted several significant factors. First, he noted that the Defendant had an extensive history that including numerous acts of violence, making the Defendant a significant concern to the public safety. Next, he noted that impact that Zyn’s death has had on his family, and most significantly, his six-year old sister, who frequently asks family questions that they cannot answer about Zyn’s death.

Judge Papile further noted that he could not ignore the significant medical evidence of Zyn’s injuries that were presented at trial. Finally, Judge Papile noted the Defendant’s attitude during the entire process and at sentencing. The Judge noted that the Defendant showed absolutely no remorse for his actions and refused to take any accountability even after being presented with the evidence against him and being found guilty at trial. The Judge noted a family member’s testimony at trial that “all responsible need to be held accountable,” and the Judge told the family that after today they would have one answer to give Zyn’s sister after today. That someone was held accountable for what happened to her brother.

This case was prosecuted on behalf of the Commonwealth by Senior Commonwealth’s Attorney Jennifer Titter and Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Samantha Graham.