Testimony In Baby Death Trial Continues

October 6, 2025 2:41 am

Testimony on day one of the homicide trial of Joshua George, 33 of Smith Township concluded early due to technical problems with computers. George is accused of shaking his infant son and delivering him injured, to the child’s grandparents for babysitting. The grandparents called for medical assistance when the child became lethargic and began vomiting and convulsing. Testimony came from the child’s mother Caitlyn Riffle who testified that the child was fine when she departed for work and left the child to be delivered by George to her father and step-mother, Cheska Rotellini. Rotellini contacted Riffle about the child’s condition but it was revealed under cross examination that the child’s condition was much worse than initially described. In the afternoon, Cheska Rotellini took the stand and described the child’s demeanor as inconsolable and he then vomited causing her to call 9-1-1. She then testified to the events that occurred with the baby being ambulanced to a hospital. Cross examination revealed that questionable decisions were made by Rotellini regarding other children previously in her care, often putting those children at risk. Rotellini’s recollection of events was sketchy, often times having her say that she did not recall events. Technical difficulties with computers ended the day. Testimony will continue Tuesday morning.