NFM man charged with murder, child abuse
A North Fort Myers man accused of sexually abusing and battering a 2-year old girl is now charged with second-degree murder and a second count of aggravated child abuse.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office held a news conference announcing the new charges filed against Nicholas Canfield, 25, in the wake of the child’s death.
Sheriff Carmine Marceno reviewed the case findings, saying a post-mortem investigation showed signs of blunt force and sexual trauma.
Marceno said there is a similar, unrelated, case currently is under investigation in Lehigh Acres.
Marceno said those arrested for such crimes will be charged and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
“I have zero tolerance for any form of abuse. As sheriff, it’s my priority and obligation to protect everyone from abuse,” Marceno said. “It’s pure evil and my heart goes out to the family members.”
Marceno added that with the COVID situation and many people being forced to stay home when they usually are at work, there can be an uptick in calls.
“When you have more people in one place at one time, you’re going to get more calls for service. There are certain calls we see more of,” Marceno said. “Our people have done the best job under the worst circumstances.”
According to the police report, deputies responding to an April 29 call found Canfield attempting life-saving measures on a child at a residence on West Mariana Avenue.
Emergency personnel took over life-saving measures and the girl was immediately transported to Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Medical staff at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit determined that there were indications of recent sexual abuse, as well as fresh bruises, swelling and other forms of suspicious, non-accidental physical trauma. The child died from her injuries on May 1.
A second child at the residence was also shown to have injuries, Marceno said, adding this case is still ongoing.
At the time of his arrest, Canfield was charged with capital sexual battery (victim under the age of 12) and aggravated child abuse, a first-degree felony.