The case of Trinity Poague, a former local pageant contestant, has captured national attention as jurors delivered a guilty verdict in the death of her boyfriend’s 18-month-old son, Romeo Angeles. The toddler, also known by his family as Jaxton “Dru,” was found unresponsive in January 2024 inside a dorm room at Georgia Southwestern State University. Despite emergency efforts, he later died from his injuries.
During the trial, prosecutors argued that the child suffered fatal blunt-force trauma to both his head and torso while under Poague’s care. Medical experts testified that the extent and nature of the injuries could not be explained by an accident. According to court records, the trauma caused severe organ damage and catastrophic brain injuries, ultimately resulting in the child’s death.
Prosecutors also presented text messages and communication records suggesting that Poague was increasingly resentful of the child. They alleged that she wanted a biological child with her boyfriend and viewed the toddler as an obstacle to the relationship. The state argued that this motive, combined with the medical evidence, painted a clear picture of what happened inside the dorm room.
The defense maintained that Poague did not intentionally harm the child and challenged the medical findings, arguing that the timeline and circumstances were inconsistent with the prosecution’s narrative. Defense attorneys insisted that Poague cared for the toddler and had no history of violence.
Jurors deliberated and ultimately found Poague guilty on multiple counts, including felony murder, aggravated battery, and first-degree cruelty to children. She was found not guilty on the charge of malice murder. After the verdict, the judge proceeded to sentencing, hearing statements from the victim’s family, who described their profound loss and the trauma the case has caused.
The sentence handed down by the court reflects the severity of the charges and the circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death. Legal analysts say the outcome underscores how seriously Georgia courts treat crimes involving young children, especially when the evidence establishes severe and intentional harm.
The community reaction has been intense, with many following the case closely both in local news and through viral clips circulating on social media. The tragic nature of the child’s death and the emotional courtroom scenes have drawn widespread attention, sparking conversations about child safety, caregiver responsibility, and the legal consequences of violent offenses involving minors.
As the legal process concludes, the family continues to mourn the loss of Romeo “Dru” Angeles, remembering him as a joyful toddler whose life was cut tragically short. The case leaves behind a lasting impact on the community and stands as a stark reminder of the responsibility entrusted to anyone caring for a child.
