CALGARY- Charges in the death of a six-year-old girl have been upgraded, meaning her father and stepmother will go on trial for first-degree murder.
Meika Jordan died of blunt force trauma to the head and abdomen back in November 2011. She also suffered severe burns before her death.
Her father, Spencer Jordan, and stepmother Marie Magoon were arrested, and on Wednesday the Crown changed the charges against them to first-degree murder.
Global News contacted the Crown to find out why, but did not receive a response back. However, first-degree charges can either involve premeditation, or simultaneously committing other offences including confinement or sexual assault.
Jordan’s mother and stepfather say they’re grateful police and prosecutors pushed for the higher charge.
“To know that they’re fighting so hard, so strongly for our girl is absolutely amazing,” says Kyla Woodhouse.
Before her death, Meika was at the centre of a custody battle, and the Woodhouses hope this case will spare other children- including their new baby, Jasmine.
First and second-degree murder convictions carry a penalty of life in prison, but someone convicted of second-degree could be eligible for parole sooner.
A preliminary inquiry in the case is scheduled for October.
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