Deliberations continue Monday for man charged with son's death

YOUNGSTOWN — Prosecutors said in closing arguments today for a man accused of killing his 15-month-old son there was no way the child could have suffered the massive injuries and still be able to function for several days.

Defense attorney Joseph Gardner, however, told jurors in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court a defense expert testified Rayvon Stewart could have been functioning after suffering the injury that led to his death, and jurors had a choice to believe his expert or the pathologist with the Summit County Coroner’s Office who performed the autopsy.

Gardner is representing Larry Dawson, 26, of Wesley Avenue, who is charged with murder and two counts of child endangering in the death of Rayvon in December 2012.

Testimony began Tuesday before Judge Shirley Christian. Jurors began deliberating the case about 11:30 a.m., and the judge sent them home about 5 p.m. They are expected to continue deliberating Monday.

For the complete story, read Saturday's Vindicator and Vindy.com