Watch CBS News

Trial Begins For Man Charged With Dismembering Rockford Boy

CHICAGO (AP) — The trial has started for a Rockford man charged in the death of a 2-year-old Rockford boy whose dismembered remains were found in 2015 in a Chicago lagoon.

RELATED Family Outraged At Possible Change In Charges For Man Accused Of Killing, Dismembering Toddler

Cook County prosecutors Tuesday didn't say how Kyrian Knox died, but said 44-year-old Kamel Harris killed the toddler before scattering the boy's weighted-down remains in the Garfield Park Lagoon. Prosecutors say they don't have fingerprint or DNA evidence linking Harris to the killing because of how the boy's body was disposed of in the water.

Prosecutors say Kyrian's mother, Lanisha Knox, left him with Harris for a few weeks while setting up a new life in Iowa. But Harris' lawyers say Knox was impulsive and often shuttled between cities.

Harris' attorney said he would testify he gave Kyrian to people who said they were taking the boy to his mother.

Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.