PGPD Arrests Suitland Man for Child Abuse

Updated May 25, 2013:  The victim died from his injuries on May 23, 2013.  He is identified as two-year-old Jamir Khaden Shipe of the 3800 block of Swann Road in Suitland.  The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide.  The charges against Clifton Bernard have been amended to first degree murder and related charges.  He remains in the custody of the Department of Corrections on a no bond status.

The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested a Suitland man for abusing a young child in his care.  He is identified as 26-year-old Clifton Edward Bernard of the 3800 block of Swann Road.

Clifton Edward Bernard

On May 22, 2013, at approximately 8:00 am, patrol officers were called to the 3800 block of Swann Road for the report of an unresponsive child.  The two-year-old child was taken to the hospital, where he remains in critical condition.  He is being treated for several injuries including head trauma. 

PGPD detectives interviewed Bernard who admitted to assaulting the child.  Bernard is in a relationship with the child’s biological mother.  Bernard is charged with attempted murder, first and second degree child abuse as well as first and second degree assault.  He is being held at the Department of Corrections on a no bond status.

For more information, please contact the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Media Relations Division at 301-772-4710.