Skip Navigation

Man charged in 3-year-old Arabella Parker’s death won’t face death penalty in Northumberland County

Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matulewicz wouldn't state the reasons for the decision.

  • The Associated Press

 iStock

(Sunbury) — A man charged in the beating death of his girlfriend’s 3-year-old daughter will not face the death penalty if found guilty of murder.

Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Matulewicz announced the decision Thursday but wouldn’t state the reasons for it.

He said his aim is to keep publicity about Jahrid Josef Burgess’ case to a minimum to reduce the possibility a judge would move the trial to another county.

Burgess is charged with killing Arabella Parker.

The child’s mother, Samantha Jo Delcamp, is charged with homicide as an accomplice and isn’t facing the death penalty.

Both are being held without bail awaiting trial.

Support for WITF is provided by:

Become a WITF sponsor today »

Support for WITF is provided by:

Become a WITF sponsor today »

Up Next
Regional & State News

Fort Indiantown Gap instructor is first female Pa. Guard member to pass Army Ranger School