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6-year-old found dead in Hagerstown, father charged with child abuse

Investigators charged Andre Derek Ford with first-degree child abuse and neglect.

HAGERSTOWN, Md. — A Maryland man has been arrested on child abuse and neglect charges after Hagerstown Police say he failed to care for his 6-year-old son, and the boy died. 

On Tuesday, Nov. 28, officers responded to the 200 block of N. Locust Street for a report of an unresponsive child. When officers arrived, they found the boy dead. It was determined the 6-year-old was suffering from severe malnutrition and starvation. 

An investigation determined that the boy's father, identified as 31-year-old Andre Derek Ford, failed to provide proper care and medical treatment for the child. 

A second boy, 5, was also home when police arrived. He was removed from the home and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Ford was arrested and faces two counts of first-degree child abuse and neglect of a minor. Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation and results of an autopsy.

Police say the the investigation is active and ongoing. Ford is currently incarcerated at the Washington County Detention Center.

Additional details were not immediately available, police said.

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