Canton Couple’s Bond Set at $1 Million Following Tragic Child Starvation Case
On May 15, 2025, in a disturbing case out of Canton, Ohio, Demetres S. Givens, 42, and Jamie L. Thompson, 37, appeared in court facing serious charges connected to the death of their 3-year-old adoptive son, Berko Givens. The couple has been indicted for involuntary manslaughter and endangering children, with their bond set at an astonishing $1 million each. Their next court appearance is scheduled for May 19.
The heartbreaking details regarding Berko’s death have shocked the community and raised questions about the child welfare system. The couple is accused of “cruelly torturing” Berko by allegedly starving him, leading to his tragic demise. The official criminal complaint underscores the couple’s role as Berko’s legal guardians, emphasizing that they were responsible for his well-being following his placement with them by Summit County authorities.
The tragic events unfolded on May 5 when Canton police responded to a distressing report from the couple’s home located on Gilbert Circle NE. Officers arrived around 9:30 p.m. and discovered Berko unresponsive in his bed, surrounded by vomit. According to Thompson, she claimed to have performed CPR on Berko after Givens checked on him and found him unresponsive. She asserted that Berko had an eating disorder that prompted him to frequently vomit, and that the couple had sought assistance from Stark County Job & Family Services for his medical needs.
However, the allegations reveal a much darker reality. The complaint indicates that both Givens and Thompson ignored multiple medical recommendations, including essential pediatric appointments, over several months. Law enforcement officials allege that their refusal to engage with health care providers directly contributed to Berko’s tragic end. After being transported to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Center, Berko was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The gravity of the situation escalated when, just four days later, the Canton police obtained arrest warrants for Givens and Thompson. Their capture was a priority for law enforcement, particularly given the nature of the crime involving a child.
To apprehend the couple, the U.S. Marshals joined forces with Canton police. Kurt Everett from the Marshals office expressed the distressing nature of crimes involving children, stating, “Any time a crime involves a child, that pulls on heartstrings.” Authorities successfully tracked down Givens and Thompson after identifying their vehicle near the Stark County Sheriff’s Office. In a surprising turn of events, the couple indicated they planned to turn themselves in, which was ultimately facilitated by law enforcement.
The emotional impact of Berko’s death resonated not only within the community but also among his biological relatives. Myracle Givens, Berko’s biological mother and sister to Demetres Givens, voiced her devastation during an interview. Expressing her disbelief, she questioned how the system allowed Berko to fall into the care of individuals who allegedly neglected his basic needs. “If they diagnosed him with malnutrition and his appointments were being canceled after the fact… why weren’t these people turned in?” she asked, reflecting a sense of betrayal and grief.
Myracle recounted her experiences with Summit County Child Services, explaining how she had been separated from her son shortly after his birth and had continuously tried to regain custody over the years. Her sorrow mingled with anger and confusion over how such a tragedy could occur. “I just cannot understand how someone could allow a child to starve to death in this day and age,” she lamented.
The Summit County Children’s Services (SCCS) has remained tight-lipped regarding the specifics of Berko’s case, citing confidentiality laws that prevent them from disclosing details about individual cases. A representative from the agency reiterated the organization’s deep sorrow over the loss of any child but did not offer clarity on the placement of Berko with Givens and Thompson.
This case has opened a broader discussion about the child welfare system in Ohio and raises questions about how the state monitors the well-being of children placed in foster or adoptive homes. The tragic death of young Berko Givens serves as a somber reminder of the responsibilities that come with caring for vulnerable children and the pressing need for accountability within child protective services.
As the legal proceedings against Demetres Givens and Jamie Thompson continue, the community grapples with the shocking implications of this case. Berko Givens’s untimely death has sparked outrage, grief, and a desire for justice as family members and advocates seek answers. The road ahead will not only demand accountability for the alleged actions of the couple but will also prompt a reevaluation of how the system protects those who cannot protect themselves. The upcoming court dates will be closely watched, as the community seeks to find closure and hope for a more vigilant and effective child welfare system.
Sources: