MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. – A Madison Heights man has been convicted of murder and child abuse in the death of a 6-year-old boy who prosecutors said endured repeated abuse inside his home.
An Oakland County jury on Tuesday (June 9) found 34-year-old Daniel John Giacchina guilty on all counts, including felony murder and first-degree child abuse, in the death of Giovanni “Chulo” Jennings.
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Jennings died on July 31, 2024, a day after Madison Heights police and firefighters responded to a 911 call reporting that the child was not breathing.
Authorities said the boy suffered blunt-force trauma and a perforated bowel.
Investigators determined he had been repeatedly beaten and abused by Giacchina and his mother, Elaina Jennings.
Prosecutors alleged Giovanni was regularly subjected to abuse and was at times confined to a corner of the home, where his clothing was stapled to the wall to restrain him.
In addition to felony murder and first-degree child abuse, Giacchina was convicted of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, felony-firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, and lying to a peace officer.
He faces up to life in prison when he is sentenced Sept. 9 in Oakland County’s Sixth Circuit Court.
Jennings’ mother, Elaina Jennings, was convicted in a separate trial in March of felony murder, first-degree child abuse, and lying to a peace officer.
Prosecutors said Elaina initially told investigators that someone from outside the home was responsible for the abuse.
Authorities later determined both Elaina and Giacchina were involved in the child’s mistreatment.
Elaina is scheduled to be sentenced on July 1 in Sixth Circuit Court.
The case stems from an investigation launched after first responders arrived at the family’s Madison Heights home on July 30, 2024.
Giovanni was taken to a hospital, where he died the following day.